Hi, I'm Charley Wilkinson and I am delighted to take on this exciting new role with the Fleetwood Trust.
I started my career working at the University of Cumbria as it now known, St Martins College when I was there as the Accommodation and Welfare officer for the students living on campus. This role was really rewarding and immense fun!
That role made me realise that I loved to work with people and to help them in achieving their dreams and goals. I have vast experience in the third sector over 20 years in Lancashire and Cumbria including working with older people, sight loss, mental health, drug and alcohol use and learning disabilities.
My experiences in senior roles within the voluntary sector have given me the skills to help build a strong, aspirational organisation which is prepared for all challenges it may face in the future.
I have previously worked with the CQC in an outstanding rated service where I was Registered Manager, one of only 14 organisations to get this rating on first inspection and across all five areas of safe, caring responsive, effective and well-led.
I am passionate about leading and working alongside in partnership with other local agencies and going the extra mile for the people who need help to live their lives. One of the greatest feelings is knowing you have helped somebody and made a difference. Kindness costs nothing but its value is priceless.
One of the highlights of my career was opening and running the Women's Centre in Blackpool and then on a smaller scale in Wyre and Lancaster. I am very proud to have won a Butler Trust award in 2012 for services in the community, this was a national award presented to me by Princess Anne at Buckingham Palace.
Outside of work I am a proud Auntie to my two amazing nephews, Robert and Angus who brighten my world up everyday. I am passionate about the environment and the world we live in to ensure that its a better place for the next generation. I also love photography and reading, I am a member of the National Trust and the RSPB.
I live just 'over the water' in Lancaster with my beloved dog, Basil but I know Fleetwood very well. I look forward to spending a lot more time here, working for the Fleetwood Trust and playing an active role in the community.
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