In a time of pivotal transformation, we are pleased to announce the addition of six new Trustees. The backdrop of the government’s 10-year Drug Strategy, which has ushered in positive changes is an exciting time bringing great opportunities and new challenges.

Our current Chair Kevin Yorath, Andy Smith, and Chief Executive Tim Young extend a warm welcome to six people who bring a wealth of expertise to help shape the charity's future.

Meet our New Trustees

Ellen Tatterton: A seasoned professional in finance, Ellen, FCCA, is a qualified accountant with a Master's Degree in Finance and Accounting, and has been a Chartered Director since 2014. Having retired in September 2023, she now plays a crucial part in the Singleton Birch/Mississippi Lime ERP project.

Ian Parsons: Serving as Chair and NED Advisor for various organisations, Ian, a former Chief Executive of a FTSE 250 PLC, boasts extensive experience in retail, logistics, manufacturing, and healthcare. His guidance as a senior management mentor has proven invaluable to executives.

Fran Ashton: Bringing a wealth of frontline experience, Fran, a registered social worker is a Principal Social Worker in a health and social care NHS Trust, brings 38 years of expertise in social care. Providing leadership in integrated mental health services, she is actively involved in national projects to ensure that social work is valued and understood in health settings.

Nick Dodds: Co-Managing Director of Medisoft, the UK's leading ophthalmology electronic medical record supplier, Nick oversees operations, implementation, commercial, standards, HR, and facilities. His journey from a law degree at Newcastle University to a successful career in technology, specifically in healthcare, reflects his commitment to solving problems in health and social care services.

Helen Shay: A legal expert with a diverse background, Helen, a non-executive director with Universities Superannuation Scheme Ltd, combines a wealth of experience from private practice and in-house roles. As a solicitor and Social Mobility Ambassador for the Law Society, she actively contributes to the legal profession and serves as a charity trustee.

Jim Cooper: Bringing clinical experience and leadership from the NHS, Jim, a Registered Nurse, serves as a Trustee for ADS. Currently working in a senior operational role in a large hospital trust, he has held various clinical and leadership roles, previously serving as a staff governor for an acute hospital trust.

The collective expertise and dedication of these new Trustee/Directors promise to steer The Alcohol and Drug Service toward new heights in our mission to combat substance misuse and increase numbers in recovery.