From the interim Chair of the board

Thank you for your interest in this important role at Solace Women’s Aid. Having had the privilege to serve on the Board for more than six years (more recently as the Interim Chair), I have always been deeply impressed with the commitment, values, expertise and sheer determination of the women who work and volunteer in this remarkable organisation. The work Solace delivers is emotionally tough and complex, and we are fortunate to attract and retain incredible staff.

We know that our mission to end male violence against women and girls will not be achieved without also tackling the overlapping barriers and discrimination that women and girls from marginalised backgrounds experience. Solace is committed to becoming a truly inclusive and intersectional organisation, focused on the well-being of our staff, and with Equity, Diversity and Inclusion being a golden thread throughout the organisation. I'm particularly pleased that our own flourishing Inclusion Networks (People of Colour, Diverse Abilities, LGBTQ+ and Active Allyship) are enriching our work.

We have faced up to the challenges of the past 18 months with humility and a sincere ambition to improve, and while we know that much remains to be done, we have made steady progress on our journey of change. After the tragic murder of George Floyd, we developed and set in motion a new equity, diversity and inclusion strategy, led by a new Head of EDI, and are in the process of an organisational culture review to develop the right internal culture, values and ways of working to support all of our stakeholders. This will remain a priority for our new Chief Executive.

On International Women’s Day, we launched our new five-year strategy, Solace Futures, which guides the work of the organisation. Candidates will relish the opportunity to lead Solace as it continues to develop, grow and expand its reach and impact through this strategy. As you’ll see, our three foundational principles – intersectional feminism, partnership and collaboration, and being led by the experience of service users – guide everything we do.

You’ll bring exceptional, compassionate leadership, rooted in feminist values and a collaborative approach. Together with the Board and wider Executive Team, you will be motivated by the knowledge that you’re playing a key role in a charity which puts women and children first, and which is dedicated to helping survivors achieve independent lives free from abuse.

I very much look forward to meeting you. With best wishes,

Kirsty Telford
Interim Chair, Solace Women’s Aid