Our Trustees

Laura has been a trustee at Contact since 2020 and was appointed as Chair in November 2023. Laura has worked with vulnerable young people and looked after children in education for many years. Most recently as Assistant Headteacher and Special Educational Needs Coordinator at a residential special school for 7-19 year olds with complex mental health and additional needs.

 “I joined Contact as I wanted to be a part of such a lovely group of people who are making sure young women in our local community are getting the housing, access to services, love and continued care they deserve. Leadership roles in the education and charity sectors, and a care home for young people has equipped me with many relevant skills for Contact.

 I am driven to do all I can to ensure Contact continues to provide this service for many years to come. I am privileged to take on the role as Chair, as it is the natural next step in my dedication to everything I strive to achieve for our tenacious girls, inspiring staff and wonderful trustees.”

Jo is a Chartered Accountant specialising in Finance Business Partnering. Currently contracted at OCS (Facilities Management).

"I was approached by the Chair of Contact to apply for the role of Treasurer. Having previously been Head of Finance for Education and Society at the UK’s biggest Charity ‘British Council’, I felt I had the financial and charity skills to take on this role.
As a Trustee I enjoy seeing the positive impact that Contact makes on local young girls lives, the dedication of the on-site staff and the kindness of our donors."

Megan is an Architectural Designer, specialising in Housing Design within urban communities. She is passionate about creating quality places to live and recognising the importance of a home for all. 

After her recent relocation to Manchester from London, Megan hoped to embed herself within the local community and was charmed by Contact's inspiring and successful efforts to support young women within a home environment, through education and into independent living. Contact seemed a natural bridge between her aspirations within housing and her instinctive ambition to support young women. 

Jane’s career has been all about doing good with digital.  She is an experienced Digital Design and Research leader, was part of the team that built BBC iPlayer and led design for BBC CBeebies and CBBC, Bitesize and Sport. Now as Design Director at Reason Digital, a Manchester-based social enterprise, Jane delivers digital experiences and research projects for charities like Refuge, Mencap and Anna Freud Centre.

“I wanted to join Contact Hostel because it’s a cause close to my heart and in my community, and because I can contribute my experience in digital to help Contact. I want to make sure all young women are getting the care and support they need to achieve their goals, no matter the circumstances they’ve been dealt. “

Kirsty is a HR Specialist and has worked for a number of different organisations across a variety of sectors, including not for profit.

“I have actively supported Manchester based charities that support women and children for many years so becoming a trustee is a natural progression for me. Work and family commitments mean that my spare time is limited so when looking for a trustee position I was focused on finding a small organisation whose work really interests me and aligns with my values. Contact was the perfect choice given that it’s a small charity with a focus on women and girls. I have followed their good work for years and am proud to now represent them as a trustee.”

Eram joined Contact Hostel as a trustee in 2024. Eram is an Employee Relations specialist and conducts workplace investigations. Eram was born and lived locally and attended Whalley Range High School.

“I am passionate about diversity, equity and inclusion, and am deeply proud of my South Asian culture. As a single mum I know how important it is that young people are provided with a safe and stable space to learn and grow. I am proud to be a small part of providing this via my involvement with Contact as a Trustee.”

Liz is a partner in a large national law firm, specialising in real estate finance. She is passionate about social mobility and making sure that girls from all backgrounds are given the opportunity to thrive, develop essential life skills and feel optimistic about the future. 

“I have followed the work that Contact do for several years. When I saw that they needed trustees with a legal background, I didn’t hesitate to put my name forward. The type of support that Contact provide for young women is so important and is needed now more than ever. I am proud to work with the fantastic Contact team and the other trustees.”