Our Trustees

Our dedicated Board of Trustees play a vital role in ensuring that the charity is run in line with its charitable objectives, its assets are well-managed, and that safety requirements are met.

Hayley Bird

Hayley is an experienced Human Resources leader whose career has been rooted in a deep interest in people—how they think, work, grow and relate. With an MSc focused on integrating the psychology of work with modern HR practice, Hayley has spent many years helping individuals and teams thrive in healthy, supportive environments. Hayley brings this same heart for people to Breathe Youth.

Ruth Julius – Chair

Ruth previously worked in the NHS as a nurse, midwife and health visitor. Latterly she was Locality Matron and Professional Lead for Health Visitors. She completed an MSc in Reproductive Health and Family Planning Management at Cardiff University. She has been involved in youth work since 2008 and was instrumental in setting up Breathe.

Kate Newell

Kate has a background in nursing and public health and has worked in the NHS throughout much of her career. She subsequently trained as a counsellor to enable her to provide greater support to young people. She currently works for Let’s Talk Well as a counsellor in the Forest of Dean team and in facilitating parent groups. She is passionate about improving outcomes for young people.

Martin Spoor

Martin’s professional background is in education, firstly as an English teacher, then as a deputy headteacher. He took up acting headships in Leeds and Gloucester, serving communities with significant social deprivation. He is currently working in education in an advisory capacity.

James Woodcock – Treasurer

James has wide ranging finance experience and has worked in management in a range of charities and in local government. He currently works in local government providing support to businesses.