The former editor of the Leicester Mercury George Oliver has been named the next chair of a health and wellbeing charity, which launched in the East Midlands in 1876.

He leads the board of Charity Link, which supports the health, wellbeing and dignity of people facing financial hardship, having been a trustee since 2019.

Oliver is also the founder of communications consultancy 1284 and replaces Clive Smith, who has led Charity Link’s board for almost 20 years.

“I am hugely grateful to Clive, not just for his trust and support during my first five years as a trustee but also for his many years chairing the organisation,” said Oliver.

“It was an honour to be asked to become Chair of this wonderful organisation and I do so knowing I have the full backing of a dedicated trustee board and staff team.

“Over recent years we have built on the foundations of our long, successful history to transform into the modern, digitally led delivery partner that our stakeholders expect and our clients need. The exciting thing is that there’s a lot more development in the pipeline.

“Demand for our services is as great as ever, but Charity Link remains well-placed to continue delivering for our partners. That is thanks to Clive for setting the direction of travel and I’m proud to now be leading our essential work.”

Smith added: “With my eighth decade starting in under a year’s time, I feel it is the right time to stand aside and pass the baton.

"I know George shares my passion for developing Charity Link’s footprint and ensuring that our hard-won reputation for service delivery and integrity is continuously safeguarded.

“I look forward to continuing to serve on the board and wish George every success and happiness with the challenges that lie ahead.”

Charity Link supports people across Leicestershire, Rutland and Northamptonshire and works with 250 local organisations to provide essential health items as well as clothing, beds and white goods to those in need.

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