1. What does your role as a trustee involve?
My primary role is to work with my co-trustees to decide how the charity can best benefit its beneficiaries and ensure that its resources are managed responsibly. As a result of my legal background and Citizens Advice experience, I am also focusing on governance and support for vulnerable clients.
2. What drew you to become involved with Work Avenue?
During the Pandemic, I joined the review panel for the Emergency Community Fund, which was administered by Work Avenue. Through my involvement, I became aware of the charity’s outstanding work and was therefore delighted when I was approached to join the Trustee Board.
3. What do you think Work Avenue brings to the Community?
An amazing support system for those striving to become financially independent, offering employment opportunities, training or help for entrepreneurs, including its impressive shared workspace. Through WAGE, it also uniquely bridges both business and employment by offering work opportunities in the businesses it supports. A ‘win win’ for all involved!
4. What inspires you?
Seeing the difference we can make to clients at challenging times, helping them to earn a living with dignity, grow in confidence, and realise their full potential. I am particularly struck by the welcoming atmosphere and the genuinely wide-ranging, inclusive and cross communal nature of our client base.
5. What can we expect from Work Avenue over the next 12 months?
Given the economic climate, coupled with the demand for new skills in a changing workplace, we anticipate increasing client demand. We are ready for this challenge and will offer support in new and innovative ways, such as our recently launched mentoring programme and our in-work upskilling courses.