Winchester Youth Counselling appoints new Interim CEO

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Photo of Jules Gillard Winchester Youth Counselling

Winchester Youth Counselling has announced today that Jules Gillard commences today as Interim CEO.  Erin Tollefsen, the charity’s current CEO takes maternity leave.

Sian Searles, Chair of the Board of Trustees at Winchester Youth Counselling said: “Erin joined us as Winchester Youth Counselling’s first CEO in May 2021 and during this time has made a positive impact on the organisation, generating new income, developing the services and team and refreshing the brand.  We thank her for her hard work to date and wish her all the best for her very exciting adventure ahead.”

“We are excited to work with Jules to continue to provide outstanding mental health support to 11-25 year olds.  She brings with her over 15 years of working in senior management teams in the charity sector, predominantly with children and young people. She has also recently graduated with Distinction from a MSc in Psychology, been part of the neuroscience and psychology research teams at the University of Sussex and is a trustee for a national mental health charity.”

Jules Gillard said: “I have long admired the work of Winchester Youth Counselling (WYC) and am really excited about starting the role.  WYC provides a vital service to young people and their families living in the Winchester area, which is vital at a time when young people’s mental health has never been so important.

“I have a real passion for and belief in the positive effects of counselling, having both studied it and been the recipient of it and believe a range of therapies can be a really powerful intervention tool for young people facing challenges with their mental health.

“It is a difficult time for charities, however, I am ready for the challenge and am ready to build on Erin’s hard work to drive the continued success of this amazing charity. I am looking forward to working with my colleagues, volunteers, Board of trustees and partners to ensure we can provide Winchester Youth Counselling’s life-changing services to young people who need our support in the Winchester area.

I am calling on the local community to get behind us and support us whether it be through volunteering, making a donation or fundraising.”

Winchester Youth Counselling is a charity offering free counselling, therapy and mental health support for young people aged 11-25 in the Winchester area.