Youth mental health charity YoungMinds has announced its chief executive, Laura Bunt, will be stepping down this spring.

The charity has appointed Abigail Ampofo to be Interim chief executive for a year while they transition into new leadership.

Bunt has spent the last two years leading the organisation through a significant period of change, including rebranding the charity and designing a new strategy.

Laura Bunt, chief executive of YoungMinds said: “It has been an absolute privilege to lead YoungMinds towards our vision that no young person is alone with their mental health. It’s been a time of transition for us in a challenging context, with so much opportunity ahead. I am so proud of my amazing colleagues, the incredible young people in our community and everything we achieved together - showing that a better future for young people isn’t only necessary, but possible.

“I know YoungMinds remains in capable hands with an excellent Board of Trustees, Youth Panel, Senior Leadership team and with Abigail's extensive experience. I will miss everyone enormously and can’t wait to see what’s next for you.”

Abigail Ampofo, interim chief executive at YoungMinds added: “I have long admired YoungMinds as a charity that makes a real difference to young people’s lives. The organisation has such a dedicated team of staff that live up to the values of the organisation. I wish Laura all the very best and look forward to continuing to lead the charity through a period of transition to ensure we deliver for young people and their mental health.”

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