Our board’s primary responsibility is to govern in the charity’s best interest, contributing their time and individual expertise.
The board have invested a lot of time into Wigan Youth Zone and has supported the project consistently since the beginning. They are incredibly proud of the work done here at the youth zone and the fantastic support from our dedicated patrons, corporate partners, funders, trusts and staff that all have contributed to Wigan Youth Zone’s continued success.
Facilities, Health and Safety
Marketing and Communications
Legal
Wigan enthusiast Gary has enjoyed a long career working with some of the biggest brands in the UK and has been with the Youth Zone right from its roots, establishing the Charity as a founding patron. Gary said: “Right from the outset, I believed in what Wigan Youth Zone was seeking to deliver and the potential positive impact it could have on local young people, something close to my heart.”
Born and bred in Wigan, Nigel joined the board in 2018, having originally supported Wigan Youth Zone as a patron. Nigel brings a wealth of HR expertise, having run his own consultancy for 12 years. Nigel said: “I remember feeling how overwhelmed I was when I visited the site for the first time and seeing all the work they do. Who wouldn’t want to get involved and help those who change the lives of many young people!”
As the Director of a Licensed Insolvency Practice, Lisa has spent the last 25 years providing critical advice and support to those who find themselves in financial difficulty. Her passion for helping others doesn’t stop there, as she is keen to use her time and skills to make a difference to the lives of young people in Wigan & Leigh. Lisa said: “At the heart of all the decisions we make, we should always keep the best interests and focus on the young people we are trying to support.”
Gill has worked in local government for over 30 years, managing a range of front-line services as a Corporate Director and addressing important issues within her community. Now running her own business, Gill provides leadership and management training, qualifications and business coaching. She said: “I value being part of an organisation that helps to make a difference to so many young peoples’ lives, to enable them to develop new skills, gain confidence and to have the amazing opportunities the Youth Zone provides.”
Jackie Salt brings a wealth of digital marketing skills as Commercial Director of Wigan-based agency, ATTAIN. Since joining the board in April 2019, Jackie has advised on fundraising, events and marketing, as well as becoming heavily involved in Wigan Youth Zone’s Young Enterprise programme.
As a mum and family lawyer, Charlotte is keen to go the extra mile with making positive changes in her community, ensuring that young people living locally have access to crucial provisions and resources at the Youth Zone. Charlotte said: “Hearing from our members helps bring home what we do as a board and what we are doing on a day-to-day basis for children living locally. My involvement goes a little way to help give something back.”
Avid local sports fan, weekend triathlete and Chartered Accountant Paul lives with his young family in Shevington, and as a born and bred Wiganer, is keen to lend his professional skills and time to helping others in his community. Paul said: “The biggest value is seeing the continued great work of the Youth Zone for the young people of Wigan and Leigh and the resulting growth and development of our members. It gives me great pride to be able to tell people I am involved with the Youth Zone.”
Steve is currently Wellbeing Director for Rugby League Cares and England Rugby League national team. He has also represented England as a player and coach, and was the Scotland national team head coach for 14 years. Steve was born in Goose Green and is a passionate Wiganer.
Steve said “Being given the opportunity to be a trustee at the Youth Zone is a privilege and something that I am very proud of. The impact it has on so many young people is amazing and I look forward to being a part of the Youth Zone over the next few years”
Stuart joined the Board in February 2025 and comes with an extensive background in social care, including looked after children, safeguarding, criminal justice, and fostering and adoption.
Stuart is from Wigan and has lived in the town his entire life. He has an interest in supporting local charities who work with young people and those who are disadvantaged through poverty, homelessness, and addiction.
Stuart is the Safeguarding Trustee for Wigan Youth Zone and is focused on ensuring that all children and young people at the centre and those who engage across the Borough in outreach and at other sites, are safe, protected, and get the most out of the services available to them.
Laura is a local councillor and Wigan Council’s Lead Member for Youth Opportunities & Equalities. She also serves as the Chair of Wigan Council’s Corporate Parenting Board, Co-Chair of the Steering Committee for Leigh Youth Hub, and on the Wigan Council Adult Education Board. She has worked in and allied to education for 20 years and serves as a governor of two local schools. She also volunteers as a leader with a national organisation for young people.
