The series of roadshows began on Monday with a warm welcome from Tracey and her Paragon team. It was the perfect setting for a month of celebration, reflection, and forward-thinking. The event was attended by Hayley Connor, CEO, Tonia Redvers, Director of Operations and Business Development and Oli Long, trustee.
They joined Tracey and the Paragon Isle of Wight team for a stimulating and interactive session. The roadshow offered a valuable opportunity to connect, share ideas, and explore new ways to support the communities YOU Trust serves.
Hayley Connor said:
We’re incredibly grateful to the Isle of Wight team for being our first stop and our willing ‘guinea pigs’—in what promises to be a meaningful and energising series of events. Their openness, positivity, and thoughtful contributions left us feeling inspired and excited about the future.
Tonia Redvers and Hayley Connor
Tonia Redvers added:
The roadshows got off to a brilliant start, with Oli, a trustee coming along and seeing and hearing, the amazing work of the teams on the IOW. The feedback from the day is stunning and captures who YOU are and what we are achieving with everyone we work with. We all can’t wait for the next one!
Visit to a refuge
The team then visited families currently living in one of the YOU Trust’s refuges. It was an opportunity to deepen ongoing dialogues about the lived experiences of women and children seeking safety and support. It was also a chance to reconnect with residents and hear first-hand how life in the refuge is shaping their journeys.
The stories shared were deeply moving. Each one a powerful reminder of the resilience of survivors and the critical importance of specialist support services.
“Their courage in sharing such harrowing experiences was humbling,” said Hayley. “It reaffirms why the work we do matters so much.”
One message came through loud and clear: YOU Trust staff are making a profound difference. Residents consistently praised the Isle of Wight team for their empathy, practical support, and warmth. Many spoke of how the team had helped them feel safe again. Often for the first time in a long while.
We heard time and again how our staff are not only meeting practical needs but also restoring a sense of dignity and hope. To the Isle of Wight team—thank you. Your dedication is changing lives.
Looking ahead, the roadshow continues next with a visit to Swindon.
“We’re looking forward to another inspiring visit—one that will no doubt bring fresh ideas and reinforce the shared commitment we all have to supporting those who need us most,” Hayley added.
The 40th Anniversary Roadshows will continue throughout July, visiting every area where the YOU Trust operates.
After the team left, they received a lovely poem from a refuge resident.
