Escapism Unlocked
123-456-7890
Meet The Team...
Ellie Chopping,
Founder & Director (Escapism Unlocked CIC & The Escape Rooms Newport LLP)
I'm one of the original founding partners of The Escape Rooms Newport LLP. I’ve been creating and running escape room games for the public since 2017, and I absolutely love it. The idea for Escapism Unlocked came about while planning the relaunch of The Escape Rooms Newport in our new location. We were previously based in the basement space below the Market which, while very atmospheric, it wasn't a very accessible space and I hated having to turn people away purely because they wouldn't be able to manage the steps down to our rooms... My goal since then has been a pretty simple one: to make great escape room games that are more accessible, so that everyone can enjoy them.
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My background is in theatre — after studying Drama at the University of Exeter, I spent several years in London working in PR and publicity for West End and touring productions such as The Phantom of the Opera, Les Misérables, Chicago, Mamma Mia!, Hairspray, and Jersey Boys, to name just a few. Theatricality, immersion, and great storytelling are at the heart of every game I create, mainly because they're what matters to me most as a player.
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I adore escape rooms; they’re so incredibly fun, and I genuinely believe everyone should get to enjoy them. Unfortunately, because of the way escape room businesses operate — with only a few players able to experience a room at a time — prices often have to be quite high. While that’s understandable, it’s always bothered me that cost can be such a barrier. That’s where Escapism Unlocked comes in.
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As someone with lived experience of chronic illness, invisible disabilities, and neurodivergence, I feel strongly that accessibility and opportunity shouldn’t be reserved only for those with privilege. With the relaunch of The Escape Rooms Newport LLP, I’ve built the new business model around that belief — creating a collaborative environment with genuinely flexible working options for everyone, where all voices are heard, all accommodations are met, and everyone’s efforts are fairly rewarded.
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Too often, people like me struggle to work because the accommodations we need are rarely, if ever, genuinely provided. But I’ve learned that when I create those accommodations for myself — and work with my body instead of against it — I can achieve incredible things. Whether your needs come from illness, disability, life circumstances, responsibilities, or background, I truly believe everyone benefits when we make space for each other to thrive.
Jean Watkins,
Charity & Corporate Co-ordinator, Partnerships Team
I was lucky enough to have been born in Newport and lived here all my life. I have two adult children and too many pets. I have been working since my first Saturday job at age 14. I was working for a fruit and veg stall in the indoor market – I have come a long way since then. I now work opposite the market in the Corn Exchange.
I worked predominantly in the Finance Industry for more than 20 years, managing Teams of complaint handlers in the Insurance Sector. My driving passions have always been fairness, equality and social justice.
It seemed a natural step to become a Union Rep initially for the Banking, Insurance and Finance Union, which went through incarnations and is now part of Unite the Union. I stood for election to the National Company Committee for Unite in Lloyds and was part of the Committee for many years, serving as Vice Chair. I also set up the Newport Unite Branch in Lloyds and was elected Branch Secretary. I stood in a national election to be a full time Seconded Rep, a position I held for two terms. As a Seconded Rep I was part of pay, and terms and conditions negotiations with the Employer. I looked after the reps in Wales and represented members facing serious disciplinary hearings.
I am very excited to be part of the Community Interest Company, Escapism Unlocked. By offering a free Escape Room game it’s a chance for people who wouldn’t spend money or time on themselves, to enjoy an experience that will take them to a different reality. They will enter a space where their everyday worries are put aside, and they can also invite friends to join them on this unique adventure and not worry about the cost. As a Carer I really understand how important it is to break from routine and recharge your batteries. Ellie and Chris have deliberately kept the eligibility criteria very broad, which means that people who are often overlooked can be nominated.
It’s my privilege to be a small part of a company which strives to bring joy to the community.
Gunjita Swami,
Charity & Corporate Co-ordinator, Partnerships Team
I'm on a gap year from my Psychology degree at Loughborough University, gaining hands-on experience in leadership, HR, and community engagement. I've organised large-scale events for 19,000+ students, worked on global HR projects, and co-founded a start-up focused on women's safety, which was recognised for its innovative model. I'm driven by curiosity about people and how thoughtful, inclusive leadership can help them reach their potential.
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I think Escapism Unlocked is is needed because it offers people a much needed break from everyday life, it’s a chance to set your inner child free!