Bristol Charities, a charity that has been transforming and enhancing the lives of those in need in Bristol for over six hundred years through grants, housing and charitable projects with a deep longstanding commitment to the poorest in the city is delighted to announce the appointment of Andy Street as its new Chair of the Board of Trustees.
Andy succeeds Richard Gore, who has been in post for six years and during his time as Chair, Richard has been at the heart of Bristol Charities, leading the Charity from strength to strength as it addresses inequality and deprivation facing some of the most marginalised groups across the city.
Richard says: ‘after a rewarding time as Chair at Bristol Charities, it is time to step down and allow Andy, along with a new leadership team, to further strengthen and expand the much-needed work as new opportunities and collaborative partnerships are formed to maximise the impact and outcomes of Bristol Charities. I wish Andy and his team the absolute best and look forward seeing the city coming together to really make a difference in transforming some of the most deprived neighborhoods.’
Andy’s new appointment will commence on 1st January 2024 and proceeds as Bristol Charities enhances its capability to deliver and focus on community transformation work in areas where they can have positive impact. With new challenges such as the cost-of-living crises, rising interest rates and the ever-changing economic climate, the poorest already struggling are facing further injustice. Bristol Charities is working to challenge and prevent this worsening situation.
Speaking about his appointment Andy says: ‘Bristol Charities has an extraordinary history and heritage. It’s already delivering magnificent work through its network of Almshouses and the distribution of funds targeted at those most in need. The acquisition of the Vassall Centre has added a particularly important asset, providing essential and affordable workspace and infrastructure for charities across the city. This aligns with my passion for addressing some of the key social needs in Bristol in a more strategic and joined-up way and at a time when the need is even greater than it has been for several generations.’
Andy continues ‘to see the city coming together and resources being used and released in effective ways that make a difference to the lives of the most vulnerable whilst bringing transformation to deprived neighbourhoods in the face of big challenges is what motivates and drives me. It is a privilege to be appointed as Chair, especially at a time when the needs of those who face such dire situations are so very pressing. I am honored to succeed Richard Gore and look forward to working with the Board and Senior Leadership Team in the months and years to come.’
Julian Mines, Chief Executive at Bristol Charities concludes: ‘I’m delighted to be working with Andy as he helps build and lead the Board and Team as we develop and deliver on our next chapter in our strategy. To have Andy with his experience and knowledge will enhance the future growth and development of the charity and its work across the city.
Speaking on behalf of my team, I thank Richard for his tireless commitment to Bristol Charities over the last six years. His hard work, leadership and strong governance he will be missed, and we wish him all the best in his next venture.’