What attracted you to becoming a Trustee?
As I draw towards the end of a 40-year career as a practicing barrister, I want to have the opportunity to give something back to a worthwhile local charity. And to use my skills in dispute resolution in a new and interesting way. The YOU Trust provides exactly the sort of challenge I am looking for.
Why did you choose the YOU Trust?
In a way, the YOU chose me! At the time when I was looking around for a new opportunity, I found myself doing the Southampton legal charity walk with my old University friend Graeme Quar, the previous Chair of the Trust. Ten miles later I knew I wanted to apply to join the Board.
What have you learned so far?
How difficult it is to run a large organisation like The YOU Trust. I sit on the Finance and Commercial Committee which deals with some very big numbers and has some very serious responsibilities. We want to achieve so much for those who use our services, but we can only do that if we remain in business and that means making some hard choices and taking some tough decisions. We know that people’s lives are very dependent on us making the right calls and it is humbling to know that our sometimes dry and dusty discussions can have such a positive impact.
Favourite holiday destination?
I always feel so happy waiting in the departure terminal of the Eurotunnel Shuttle at Folkestone knowing my holiday wherever it is will shortly begin!
