I am the Chairperson  of the trustees and the founding member of the project.  It is my role to provide leadership and direction to the trustees, to work with staff and trustees to facilitate strategic decision making and to ensure the charity achieves it's objectives as defined in SYPs constitution. I am passionate about every child having the best start in life, feeling valued and being part of the community.  

I have over 20 years experience in HR and Recruitment and is Co-Director of a local HR Consultancy business. I use my skills and experience in my role as Trustee to ensure the charity keeps up to date with compliance and HR requirements, with best practise always the goal. I also spent time teaching Employability at Sunderland University.  I manage the HR database and support the staff and young people in their personal development.  

I am a qualified youth worker and artist, who became involved with SYCP as a volunteer, providing enrichment activities for the project participants, using art and crafts as a way for the children to express themselves, and as a vehicle to support their mental health and wellbeing. I am passionate about challenging inequalities and fighting poverty.  

I originally became involved with the service by volunteering and then being employed through the world of work programme. I am a qualified lifeguard and swimming teacher so understand the importance of physical health for young people.

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I am nineteen and therefore know what it is like to be a young person “of the era,” and can identify with the children and young people's views.  I am studying to be a paramedic which demonstrates my passion to help people.  

I started as a volunteer to help build my confidence, I am passionate about making a difference and love working with children.  I have had connections to Sacriston all of my life and so understand the challenges of living in a rural mining community with limited access to services.

John Tomaney is Professor of Urban and Regional Planning at University College London. He is a Trustee of Redhills: Durham Miner’s Hall. John has strong family connections with Sacriston and has recently written a book about the village.