One of the best calls I’ve had recently was with Rebecca Radcliffe who I have the pleasure of working with in my capacity as Chair of SLDAS – South Liverpool Domestic Abuse Services. I’ve been in the role for around 15 months now.
Beckie is a brilliant leader and has made such a difference to the charity in her time there. There are increasing demands within the domestic abuse sector, not least a sharp and concerning rise in the need for services. The overall economic climate is not easy for any charity either. Despite this, I’m proud that we’ve had our best financial year and we’re operating well in delivering services to those in need.
All of this is testament to Beckie and the way she leads the organisation, with support from the team.
The relationship between Chair and Chief Executive is critical to the success of organisations operating in this structure and there’s been a lot going on since I was appointed last year! We very quickly built a strong and mutually supportive relationship and work really well together. However difficult the issues we need to discuss might be at times, I always enjoy our catch up calls.
These conversations can form a part of strategic planning but never at the exclusion of the rest of the board on the issues. Mainly, they’re a way to keep on top of what’s going on without non-exec leadership getting involved in any of the operational side of things.
We’re improving governance all the while, and I’m very pleased to say that we’ve strengthened our Board with the appointment of new trustees – more announcements coming soon as another new trustee is currently onboarding!
Massive thanks to Beckie for everything and for being so great to work with!
I’d also just like to say that whilst SLDAS works to support women and girls, domestic abuse is never gender specific or indeed a gender issue. It’s a human issue. Anyone of any gender identity and from any background can experience domestic abuse, and I remain involved with wider work in this area to support both men and women with this lived experience. I know through my own lived experience just how important this is.
Laura Evans, Chair, SLDAS – https://www.linkedin.com/in/lauraevans-ceoglassceilings/recent-activity/all/