Mark Law MBE has decided to step down from his role as chair of Young Lives Leeds following more than three years as chair. Young Lives Leeds are very grateful to Mark for expertly steering the forum through an extremely challenging time for children, families, young people and those working with them in Leeds. Mark enabled Young Lives Leeds to continue championing and amplifying the voices of organisations in Leeds working to improve the lives of children, young people and families throughout the COVID-19 pandemic, and played a key role in shaping the city’s direction around youth work, partnerships between third sector organisations and the response to the ongoing cost of living crisis.

 

We are thrilled to announce that Julia Preston and Helen Hart, Chief Executive Officers of GIPSIL and Barca Leeds respectively, will become Co-Chairs of Young Lives Leeds when Mark steps down in March. We would also like to thank Esme Winston Little of Leeds Mencap, who will be continuing to support the forum in her role as Deputy Chair. Both Julia and Helen bring with them a wealth of passion, expertise and knowledge of the sector.

 

“I have many years’ experience working within the Third Sector including 17 years in my current role, leading GIPSIL as CEO. During this time, I’ve represented locally based organisations as their advocate on the Third Sector Leeds Leadership Group. I’ve a good knowledge of services for young people across Leeds and I’m passionate about strengthening and developing equal partnerships within the Third Sector, and with our statutory partners, to better support young people and families across the city. I’m looking forward to working alongside Helen to co-chair Young Lives Leeds and to represent the sector in strategic conversations at what is such a crucial time for vulnerable children and young people.”

Julia Preston, Chief Executive Officer, GIPSIL

 

“Hi Everyone, I’m Helen, current CEO at Barca-Leeds. I am very excited to begin the role of Co-chair for Young Lives Leeds with Julia, it is a real honour. I have worked in the third sector for 23 years and have had the opportunity to learn first hand the invaluable, sustainable impact community organisations have working with children, young people and families. I really look forward to learning from Young Lives Leeds members, understanding what is important to you and the opportunity to advocate on your behalf.”

Helen Hart, Chief Executive Officer, Barca Leeds

 

Julia and Helen will begin chairing the next Young Lives Leeds forum meeting on 8 March 2023, which will be the last meeting Mark will be attending. If you would like to attend, please contact Ann.Crossland@val.org.uk for details.