Leeds Children’s Charity appoints Sharon Milner as CEO

Leeds Children’s Charity at Lineham Farm has announced the appointment of Sharon Milner as its new chief executive officer.

Leeds-born Sharon brings 18 years of experience in the charity sector to the new role, having spent the last two years as director of Bradford Hospitals Charity, and prior to that, 16 years as chief executive officer for the Children’s Heart Surgery Fund. Sharon replaces Dave Norman MBE who has held the position of CEO of Leeds Children’s Charity at Lineham Farm for the last 10 years.

Under Sharon's leadership, the charity aims to continue expanding its reach, ensuring that even more children can benefit from the support and care it provides.

Speaking about her appointment Sharon said: “I am enormously proud to be back in my home city taking up this position. The charity provides a vital service for youngsters in Leeds by offering adventure and learning in a safe and happy environment.

“The team do an incredible job, helping to make a real difference to young people and I am looking forward to continuing this excellent work, further strengthening our brand, and highlighting the hugely important impact the charity’s work has on the lives of deprived children across the city.

“Currently around 20% of young people living in Leeds live in poverty and in some areas this figure is far higher, reaching 55%. My commitment is to continue to help as many of these children as possible to enjoy some fun and normality away from their difficult circumstances and help to play a positive part in their future development.”

Established in 1904, Leeds Children’s Charity is dedicated to creating positive change and enhancing the lives of those in need. Working alongside social support teams, families and partnering schools, the charity provides vital respite breaks from circumstances of challenge and disadvantage.

Welcoming Sharon, Dave Norman MBE, said: “It’s been an honour to lead the Leeds Children’s Charity at Lineham Farm for the past 10 years and I am hugely proud of all we’ve achieved in that time.

“I am very pleased to welcome Sharon as the new CEO knowing that the charity’s work will continue to develop under her guidance, support and leadership. I know the team feel the same as I do, and that they will do all they can to support Sharon in the coming months as she acclimatises to life on the farm and at the charity.”

Chair of the Leeds Children’s Charity board of trustees, Ian Hargreaves, added: "Sharon's appointment marks an exciting new chapter for Leeds Children's Charity at Lineham Farm. Her impressive background in running successful charitable organisations and board member roles, along with her passion for the cause, make her the perfect fit to lead our organisation into the future.

“We also extend our heartfelt gratitude to Dave Norman for his outstanding leadership and unwavering dedication over the years. His guidance has been instrumental in shaping the charity into the impactful organisation it is today, providing vital support and enriching experiences to countless children.”

For more information about Leeds Children's Charity and the work it does visit www.leedschildrenscharity.org.uk.