By Amanda Whiteford (Chair of Trustees)

I am delighted to announce that Diane Betts is to join Aston-Mansfield as our new CEO on Monday 14 July. Diane has extensive experience of running forward looking charities, primarily those in the education sector helping young people move into work, and most recently with City Gateway. She is a qualified accountant by profession and knows the Newham area well. She grew up in East London and has spent most of her professional, volunteer, church and personal life dedicated to communities in East London.  

Diane is an experienced leader and successful fundraiser and works hard to build constructive and productive networks locally to gain the support and engagement charities need from those in government and the local council.  She has raised 4 children and is passionate about all young people being able to grow and develop to their full potential.  

 Having joined as Chair of Aston-Mansfield in January this year I have felt inspired by the fabulous work of our staff and volunteers in supporting young people at all stages of their lives; from gaining confidence through play at school clubs, to developing their skills and self-awareness through their teenage years, to supporting young people in their studies and move into employment, not forgetting our work with adults in areas such as wellbeing, support and advice. 

I am very much looking forward to welcoming Diane and working with her and the other Trustees as we look at developing a new strategy focused on services for the local community. We will be reaching out to our community members and the community at large to understand the needs of young people and their families and how we might increase our support of their growth and development.  

Thoughtful and considered in her approach to issues, I am sure Diane will prove to be an excellent addition to the Aston-Mansfield team and I am looking forward to working closely with her over the next stage of Aston-Mansfield’s development.