Chair of Trustees Retires

John has been a trustee for a six-year term and for the last three years he has chaired the Trust during a period of major change and progress.  

Over the last three years, the Trust has: introduced its Future Leaders Programme to enable it to better support young people; developed its advocacy and campaigning potential; come through the Covid and associated financial crises financially stronger and more resilient; and has taken the existential decision to sell its property - the Cambridge Centre at Foxton. 

John said, “It has been a privilege to have been part of and contributed to Villiers Park - an organisation driven by its values and mission. I have seen major change for the good over the last six years. I have enjoyed working with my trustee colleagues and the amazing staff team. Above all, I recall my regular visits to Foxton and across the country to meet, talk with and learn from Future Leaders and the Villiers Park team as being inspirational. 

"I step down knowing that the Trust is secure and well-positioned to fulfil its mission of championing the rights of socially disadvantaged young people. The Board can now look to appoint a permanent chief executive - and develop and drive forward an ambitious strategy. 

"I wish the Trust every success.” 

Adrian Ball, Deputy Chair and Interim Chair, said, “Everyone at Villiers Park would wish to thank John for his stewardship and leadership of the Trust. The Trust is in a very different and more secure place than it was before he became Chair. We look forward to appointing a new Chair and continuing the journey that John and colleagues started.”