The YESS Trustees

The Board of Trustees determines policy and, together with senior staff at YESS, sets the strategic direction for the charity.

Trustees have ultimate responsibility for directing the affairs of the organisation, ensuring it is solvent, well-run, and delivering the outcomes for which it has been set up.

James Tye

Chair of Board of Trustees

Meet James

I am a committed member of the Board of Trustees which enables me to take an active part in the governance and strategy of YESS and utilise my business experience in the charity sector. Mine and my families personal experience with YESS is what first drove me to develop my relationship with the charity and join the board with a view to providing support to them wherever possible. I am fully familiar with the need for, and challenges of complex regulation, governance, and transparency as well as the importance of excellent mental health support and emotional wellbeing for young people, adults and in business. I am proud to be part of an organisation that delivers such a high level of support.

Stephen Hill

Trustee

Meet Stephen

I am Stephen, and I have been a trustee of YESS since 2017. I studied Law at Bangor University, before doing a master's degree in Air and Space Law and returning to the UK to qualify as a barrister. I now work in public service, helping make good policy and regulation. I am deeply committed to tackling mental health issues across society, having personal experience of them and their consequences. In my free time, I enjoys reading, writing, walking and playing both video and board games.

Alan Curtis

Treasurer

Meet Alan

I joined the board of trustees for YESS in 2020 and I was appointed to the position of Treasurer in Jan 2022. I joined because through one of my children, I was able to see the great work that YESS did and how valuable it was – if I could help and support I felt that it was important! Having spend my career within and leading manufacturing businesses, I have a broad experience of developing and growing organisations and working on solutions to overcome problems and challenges. I have been pleased to be able to contribute to the strategy of YESS and I am excited to watch its development in the near future!

Kathryn Blackburn

Trustee

Meet Kathryn

I’m Kathryn Blackburn and I’ve been a Trustee at YESS since May 2021. I also work as a HR Business Partner for Molson Coors in Burton and have spent most of my career in retail, logistics and manufacturing. Outside of work you can find me enjoying time with my family and always planning the next holiday, I love the sunshine and exploring new places. Being a Trustee at YESS is a huge privilege for me and something I really enjoy supporting such a fantastic team making such a difference.

Sam Wright

Secretary

Meet Sam

Hi, I am Sam and I have been a trustee since 2018 and the Secretary of the charity since 2019. I am responsible for organising and recording board meetings. Also, I have experience working with children both in local schools and as a former youth football coach with local side Rocester Juniors. I became involved with YESS due to my keen interest in improving mental health provision as a result of personal experience.

Leighanne Mayall

Trustee

Fiona Bowyer

Trustee

Meet Fiona

With over 25 years of experience in marketing, I now work as a part time Marketing Director helping ambitious SMEs grow their business. Finding I had some spare time, I looked for a local charitable opportunity, that could benefit from my marketing experience and allow me to give something back. I am excited to join YESS and support the ongoing development and growth of the charity.

If you are interested in becoming a trustee or would like more information about the role of a trustee within YESS, please contact us today.