New Chair Announced for Groundwork North East & Cumbria, The Region’s Leading Community and Environmental Charity
Community and Environmental Charity, Groundwork NE & Cumbria is entering an exciting chapter following the appointment of Alison Fellows as its new Chair of the Board of Trustees.
Alison joins the charity at a time when North East communities face economic uncertainty, persistent inequalities, climate and nature emergencies and sustained pressure on public services, mirroring the conditions and context in which Groundwork was founded more than 30 years ago. Her role will be crucial in guiding Groundwork through these challenges and helping support the charity’s mission to improve the lives and opportunities of people and communities across the region.
With an extensive and varied career in commercial law and economic regeneration in both the public and private sectors, Alison is entering what she calls her ‘third career’, channelling her 30-plus years’ experience into non-executive roles including the position of Chair of Groundwork NE & Cumbria.
Alison trained in corporate and commercial law and worked for many years at Dickinson Dees law firm in Newcastle, before moving into senior executive roles at Local Authorities in the North East. Her commitment to community engagement goes back a long way with non-executive roles in housing, further and higher education and in health. All her skills and experience align with Groundwork’s mission to support people into employment, improve life chances for young people, create greener neighbourhoods, and continue to deliver innovative Nature-based Solutions that build healthier, more resilient communities.
Commenting on her appointment and her goals for the new role at Groundwork NE & Cumbria, Alison said: “I am excited to be joining Groundwork NE & Cumbria, a charity whose work I have admired for some time. I am keen to use my skills, experience and the contacts and connections I have made throughout my career to support the charity and deliver meaningful impact across the region.
“I am a proud Northerner, and it is very important for me to give back to the region and to improve life chances for people and strengthen the resilience of North East communities. Having worked in the region for over 30 years, I have seen the challenges many people, families, and communities face in both rural and industrial areas.
“I am particularly keen to build strong partnerships that will help expand Groundwork’s reach and support more people to thrive. I am looking forward to immersing myself in this new role and invite anyone who would like to support our work to get in touch.”
Steve Roberts, Chief Executive of Groundwork NE & Cumbria said: “We are delighted to welcome Alison to the team. She joins us at a time when community action and environmental stewardship have never been more important. Her vision, energy and experience will be a great asset and will help us strengthen our impact across the region, supporting communities to regenerate and improving the lives of local people.’
“Her skills, experience and commitment align closely with Groundwork’s values, and we look forward to working together to build partnerships and deliver programmes that create lasting, meaningful change.”
To support Groundwork NE & Cumbria contact: ne.cumbria@groundwork.org.uk