A new chair has been appointed by North West charity Alternative Futures Group (AFG) to head up its board of trustees which has accountability for the governance and strategy of the organisation.

Alternative Futures Group, whose head office is in Prescot on Merseyside, supports more than 1200 people with a broad range of need in a broad range of models. This includes supported living, outreach and floating support or in a care and treatment centre. This focus on personalised support helps people lead the lives they want and for them to be active citizens in their communities.

Chris Hannah is the current acting chair of AFG and vice-chair of West Cheshire Clinical Commissioning Group which is responsible for the healthcare of around 250,000 people.

She also currently chairs Skills for Health Ltd, the sector skills council for the UK health sector, working with NHS and independent sector organisations and is a former chief executive of the Cheshire & Merseyside Strategic Health Authority

Speaking about her appointment, Chris Hannah said:

“Ever since getting involved with AFG, I’ve been impressed by its value-led approach to supporting user independence.

“It’s heartening to see how this approach and concern to make a difference to people’s lives has endured, making it an organisation I am pleased to belong and make a contribution to.

“There are challenges ahead but I am confident that we have a talented team in place with the expertise to drive the charity forward.

“Most importantly, we will continue to deliver a first rate service to the hundreds of people we support every year.”

Neil Campbell, chief executive of Alternative Futures Group said:

“Chris has a long association with AFG since joining the board as our vice chair in 2008.

“We’re lucky at AFG to have a board of trustees, led by Chris, who bring a wealth and diversity of professional skills, experience and knowledge.”

Alternative Futures Group was recently shortlisted in this year’s Charity Times Awards for Charity of the Year, with the result being announced in October.

More information can be found by visiting www.alternativefuturesgroup.org.uk or by visiting our Facebook page, ‘AFG Support’.