Member Article

Charity Gets New CEO To Make An Impact

Impact Family Services has appointed a new CEO, as Hazel Hedley steps down to retire after ten years of service.

Nikki Turnbull has taken over the reins at the charity that supports families across South Tyneside, Sunderland, Newcastle, Cleveland, Northumberland and North Yorkshire through traumatic times of separation, divorce, domestic violence and abuse.

From North Walbottle, 41-year-old Nikki has over 20 years experience in health and social care and has held a number of director positions in charities. Through her roles she has worked with people of all ages and backgrounds, and she says she thrives on making a difference to people’s lives.

In her new position Nikki, who is married to fireman Jeff and has a nine year old daughter, hopes to sustain the charity and its current services, whilst also growing and expanding what is on offer and sourcing new funding routes. She said:

“I have very big shoes to step into with Hazel retiring. She has done an amazing job and it is a pleasure to pick up where she has left off. I am looking to cement her achievements and am looking at a sustainable journey of growth. Our services are much needed, well loved and very special, so anything new I bring in will only complement what projects we currently deliver.”

Nikki will be looking to cultivate existing and develop new relationships with partners and is very keen to break into the corporate world. She explains:

“It is important that the corporate world also supports our efforts, and whilst donations would be nice, there are many ways employers can and should be helping us.

“For example, they are at the front line of seeing people every day and we want them to make sure they keep an eye out for signs of abuse with the employees. Things could be going very wrong at home, and managers are in a perfect position to spot the tell tale signs and give advice on where to turn.”

Nikki will also be heading up and commissioning research into domestic violence to make sure Impact Family Services stays ahead of the game and has a positive influence.

More information is available by visiting the charity’s new website.

This was posted in Bdaily's Members' News section by Antonia Brindle .