Youth charity names next chief executive

Youth crime prevention charity Redthread has appointed Geethika Jayathika as its next chief executive.

She joins in June from childhood trauma support charity Chance UK, where she has been CEO since 2017.

She has also had stints as director of parenting initiative Parent Gym, commissioner for Camden Education Commission and director of communications at Creativity, Culture and Education.

In addition, she is a trustee of the Jo Cox Foundation.

Her recruitment at Redthread involved staff, trustees, and youth ambassadors at the charity.

“I am delighted to be joining Redthread, an organisation which provides life changing youth work services for children and young people in healthcare settings,” said Jayathika.

“I have been particularly impressed by the Redthread approach to supporting vulnerable young people, acknowledging the impact of trauma in their lives and the organisation’s ambition to deliver change for young people.

“I have a huge amount of respect for all they have achieved and look forward to working with the brilliant team, trustees and youth ambassadors to lead Redthread in the next stage of this journey.”

Jayathika replaces founding chief executive John Poyton, who left last year. The role was covered on an interim basis by Tracey Burley, who has been appointed chief executive of homelessness and anti-poverty charity Redthread.

Redthread is pleased to announce Geethika Jayatilaka will join us as our new Chief Executive at the start of June.

Geethika has a wealth of experience delivering services supporting young people facing trauma. We are excited to welcome her 🌟

🔗 https://t.co/tkUaA8Uf8x pic.twitter.com/mkGiAvudY7
— Redthread (@Redthreadyouth) March 27, 2023

Redthread chair Paula McDonald added: “So many vulnerable young people are affected by violence, health and wellbeing crises and our work supporting them to lead safe and healthy lives has never been more important.

“We are therefore delighted that Geethika brings such valuable expertise and experience, to lead and develop Redthread as it continues to deliver vital services for young people.”