Groundwork NE & Cumbria appoints new chair

Community and environmental charity Groundwork NE & Cumbria has appointed Alison Fellows as chair of its board of trustees as the organisation enters its next phase.

Alison joins the charity with more than 30 years’ experience spanning commercial law, economic regeneration and senior public sector leadership roles across the North East.

Her career has included time at Newcastle law firm Dickinson Dees before moving into senior executive positions within local authorities, alongside a range of non-executive roles across housing, education and health.

In her new role, she will help guide the charity as it responds to growing social, economic and environmental challenges across the region, supporting its work to improve opportunities for communities, create greener neighbourhoods and deliver nature-based solutions.

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.”

Alison’s appointment comes at a significant time for Groundwork NE & Cumbria as the organisation continues to expand its support for employment, youth engagement, sustainability and community resilience initiatives across the North East and Cumbria.

Steve Roberts, chief executive of Groundwork NE & Cumbria, added: “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.” 

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