This month marks 13 years since I joined Clinks on what was meant to be a two-year secondment. I had never worked in criminal justice before, but I brought with me a longstanding passion for the voluntary sector and a deep commitment to improving the lives of people facing multiple disadvantage. It did not take long for me to realise that I had found my home.

What has changed, and what has not

Over those 13 years, I have seen significant change across the criminal justice system, and at times been struck by how much remains the same. Voluntary organisations are still working tirelessly to secure the funding they need to keep vital, life-changing services running. Needs are becoming more visible, more complex and more urgent, while services continue to be stretched. Yet through it all, the passion, determination and resilience of the voluntary sector has never wavered.

The power of connection

One of the things I have valued most is seeing the difference that good relationships can make. Whether it is organisations coming together to share what is working, or people making space to listen to experiences that are too often overlooked, there is real strength in not working alone. It is a reminder that, even when the wider system feels difficult to shift, people can still make a difference when they are connected and supported.

“There is real strength in not working alone.”

Learning from people and places

I have had the privilege of building networks across the North East, the North, with family organisations, and now across the North East, Yorkshire and Humber. I have supported organisations to navigate commissioning, delivered training, and worked alongside partners to challenge and change systems for people facing disadvantage. I have also managed to raise a now nine-year-old along the way. Thirteen years sounds like a long time, but in the criminal justice world it still feels as though there is so much more to do.

The work has also taught me a great deal. I have learned the importance of listening properly to the people closest to the issues, and of remembering that the best ideas do not always come from the places you might expect. The voluntary sector brings knowledge, honesty and persistence, often in challenging circumstances, and I have been lucky to learn from colleagues and members throughout my time at Clinks.

The voluntary sector runs through my veins

Someone once said to me that if you cut me open, I would have the voluntary sector running through my veins, and they were right. I have worked and volunteered in the sector since I was 17, and I continue to believe wholeheartedly in its power to build stronger, kinder and more connected communities. I am particularly excited that we now have area engagement officers in every area, giving us a powerful opportunity to extend Clinks’ reach across England and Wales, strengthen local relationships, and ensure the voluntary sector has a meaningful voice in shaping evolving policy and practice.

Why local voices matter

For me, that local connection really matters. Organisations understand the communities they work in, the gaps people are falling through, and the changes that would make the biggest difference. Making sure those voices reach decision-makers is one of the most important things we can do.

The criminal justice voluntary sector is remarkable. It is powered by people who bring professional skills, lived and family experience, courage, compassion and hope. I feel incredibly proud and privileged to work alongside them, and I cannot imagine working in any other field. After 13 years, I still feel proud to be part of it.