The OPEN Youth Trust (OPEN) on Bank Plain has appointed Chief Constable Simon Bailey as its third patron to join The Rt. Rev Graham James, Bishop of Norwich and Richard Jewson, Lord-Lieutenant of Norfolk.
As National Police Lead on Child Protection, it is an entirely appropriate appointment for a charity whose mission is to provide opportunities that make a difference to the lives of young people in Norfolk.
Following his recent visit to OPEN, Chief Constable Bailey was impressed with its plans for the future, saying: “I like OPEN’s ambition that every penny of profit raised through the venue’s live music, conferences and events will fund its youth drop-in facilities and, through programmes such as Your Life, the charity is giving young people challenged by low self-esteem, bullying or disadvantage the confidence and life-skills to find work and follow their passion.”
John Gordon-Saker, Chief Executive of OPEN said: “I’m thrilled that the Chief Constable has agreed to become a Patron. Our youth workers are in a good position to support vulnerable young people but, in light of the recent report on sex abuse by the Children’s Commissioner for England, I am keen to develop closer links with schools, social services, other children’s charities and the police in order to eradicate this horrific crime. Patronage is a two way street and we will do everything we can to support the Chief Constable in his vital work.”