Welcoming Our New Youth Work Director

We are excited to announce the appointment of a new youth work director to help lead the charity’s youth work to a new future.

Jess is an experienced Senior Manager with a proven ability to work at both operational and strategic levels. Jess has spent over 15-years developing and leading significant partnership and change programmes across the youth, education, voluntary and community and mental health sectors, with recent experience of working within local government.

Her work has been inspired by her passion for equity and inclusion, as well as her learning from her postgraduate studies. These have given Jess an in-depth understanding of how young people interact with wider systems, structures, institutions, and communities.

Jess is a Chartered Manager and Member of both the Chartered Management Institute and the Institute of Leadership. This is a testament to her commitment and ability to implement strong management and leadership to transform organisations and the experiences of their people.

On her appointment Jess said, “I’m thrilled to be joining The Mix as Youth Work Director at a pivotal and exciting time for the organisation.

“I look forward to working with the staff and Trustees to enhance our youth work offer for all young people across Suffolk and further build on the excellent relationships we hold with organisations across the county.

“This is an exciting time for the organisation to grow and respond to young people’s needs in a considered and strategic way, whilst ensuring our offer remains inclusive and supportive for all who benefit from The Mix’s provision and expertise.”

Malcolm Goodwin, CEO, said, “We are absolutely delighted with the appointment of our new Youth Work Director, Jess Lee. She comes from a wealth of youth work experience and advocacy for young people.

“Jess is going to be an amazing addition to our team and lead the charity toward a brighter future.”

The Mix has been successfully supporting young people in the district for 10 years. In 2023 they supported over 3,500 young people across the charity. They offer services for young people all free of charge. This includes 1-2-1 mentoring, help getting into work, education or training, violence against women and girls groups, open access drop ins, holiday activities, support in secondary schools, and SEN support.

As well as offering free services for young people, The Mix also runs two cafés, Cabbages & Kings found inside The Mix (open weekdays 9am-3pm) and Duck & Teapot at Needham Lake (open Mon-Sat 9am-7pm and Sun 9am-4pm) > https://www.cabbageskings.co.uk/

The Mix also offers room hire services via their website www.bookaspace.org or email hello@bookaspace.org.

As a charity The Mix rely on donations from organisations and individuals. You can donate in a variety of ways via their monthly lottery, text to donate, or fundraising activities. Go to the website or get in touch with the fundraising and marketing coordinator, Rose, to discuss. rose@themixstowmarket.co.uk.

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Written by Rose Ling.