London, 6th February 2024 – Save the Children UK is pleased to have appointed four new trustees to its Board.
Jason Allen
Jason is the Founding Director of Mary’s Charity, which supports vulnerable young people affected by serious youth violence and at risk of exclusion. Jason draws from his experiences growing up in poverty and involved with social services, which he says led him to a 'flight, fight or freeze' struggle as childhood friends lost their lives and he was stabbed himself.
Mary’s Charity now provides mentoring, counselling and gang interventions reaching over 1,000 young people per year. Jason employs his Masters in Psychoanalytical Therapies and Interventions to create programmes and training that help prevent conflict and support mental health. For 17 years Jason has worked to provide support across education, communities, government, NHS, HM Prison & Probation Service, & Police.
Kirtbir Chahal
Kirtbir Chahal is a policy and advocacy specialist with extensive background in international development and children’s rights. Kirtbir currently works for the Department for Energy Security and Net Zero. During three years at the Cabinet Office, she delivered strong policy outcomes across six G7 and G20 Summits including on girls’ education, conflict-related sexual violence, nutrition, economic security, and green infrastructure.
At Unicef UK, Kirtbir developed the organisation’s first meaningful youth engagement strategy, before moving on to develop policy and advocacy strategies on air pollution, immunisation, nutrition and climate change.
She is a passionate advocate for equity, diversity and inclusion, and is known for driving corporate and culture change on EDI issues.
Laura King
Laura is a brand and marketing expert with nearly 20 years’ experience working across multiple sectors, most recently within global retailers. She is currently Marketing Director for Accessorize, the UK's leading accessories business.
Laura has a strong track record of developing and leading strategies that drive brand growth and commercial value for some of the world's highest profile consumer brands. She will join the Finance Committee and Chair the Supporter Advisory Committee.
Laura has a passion for children - including having three small children of her own. She is an active supporter of local children’s charities and has collaborated with the UN on a global campaign to tackle racism against refugees.
Jane Long
Jane is Chief Executive of Helen & Douglas House, which was the world’s first children’s hospice. After starting out in global marketing organisations she has spent the past 14 years in Executive Leadership roles, leading People and Corporate Services in the Health, Social Housing and Education sectors.
Jane has a passion for transformational change and enabling people and organisations to be the best they can be, realise their potential and maximise their impact. She will use her expertise as Chair of the People Committee.
Richard Winter, Interim Chair of Save the Children UK, said: “I’m delighted to welcome Jason, Kirtbir, Laura and Jane to the Board. They will all bring a wealth of vital expertise and experiences to our mission to help every child get the chance of a future they deserve.”
These trustee positions were advertised nationally, and shortlisted candidates underwent a thorough interview process. All four new trustees were questioned on a range of issues including their areas of expertise and their understanding of, and commitment to, issues of diversity, equality and inclusion. Our staff networks were kept informed throughout this recruitment process and some staff members met the candidates as part of the appointment process.
With any enquiries please contact Dan Stewart on d.stewart@savethechildren.org.uk / 020 3763 0119.
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