We are very pleased to announce that Helen Mary Jones was appointed as our new Chair at our recent AGM, following a recruitment campaign and a rigorous interview process.

Helen Mary is very familiar with the work of Children in Wales and has been one of our Trustees since 2021.  She was a former Member of the Senedd (1999-2011 and 2018-2021), as well as a former CEO of Youth Cymru. Helen Mary now works as a freelance consultant and sits on several boards, including Social Care Wales. 

Helen Mary said, “It is a huge privilege to have been elected to fulfil this important role. There has never in recent years been a harder time for children and families, and I am looking forward to working with the Children in Wales staff team to support our members in the vital work they do for children and young people. Promoting children’s rights must now, more than ever, be at the heart of decision making here in Wales and children’s voices must be heard.”

We are very much looking forward to working with Helen Mary to help drive forward Children in Wales’ strategic direction.

Our AGM was also Dave Williams’ final formal meeting as Chair of Children in Wales. Dave has made a huge contribution to our work over the last 9 years as Chair and Board member, and the Board and staff of Children in Wales are extremely grateful to him.  Thank you Dave!

On leaving Dave said, “It’s been a great privilege to serve on the trustee board of Children in Wales. I’m proud of all that we have achieved over the years and would like to thank all the staff and trustees of Children in Wales throughout my involvement. I leave at a challenging but exciting time. The organisation & leadership with Helen Mary as the new chair of Trustees is ready and equipped to meet that challenge. I look forward to supporting the vital work as we move forwards.”