Baroness Hilary Armstrong becomes The Cyrenians’ new Chair

"The Cyrenians is a true beacon of excellence. Although based regionally its work is both known and respected nationally..."

The Rt Hon Baroness Armstrong of Hill Top is to become the new Chair at leading regional charity, The Cyrenians.

Baroness Armstrong, who joined the Board as a Trustee in 2007, takes over the role from Mike Worthington OBE who has held the position for the last four years.

Commenting on the appointment, Stephen Bell, Chief Executive of The Cyrenians said:

"We are delighted that Hilary has agreed to become our new Chair. We have enjoyed her support over many years and it goes without saying she brings a wealth of experience and knowledge to The Cyrenians. In her extensive parliamentary career she was minister for the Cabinet Office and Social Exclusion. We will, I am sure, be drawing on her guidance significantly as we enter the next stage of our development.

"I thank Mike Worthington for his steadfast support over the last four years. During that time we have achieved tremendous results - the highlight of which must be National Charity of the Year in 2008. I am very grateful to Mike that he has generously agreed to continue in the role of vice-Chair."

Baroness Armstrong said:

"I am very proud to have been asked to take up this position. The Cyrenians is a true beacon of excellence. Although based regionally its work is both known and respected nationally; its reputation for effective, innovative support of vulnerable and homeless people is used as a blueprint across many other organisations. I am very much looking forward to helping to maintain and develop that reputation and delivery in what, clearly, are going to be challenging times ahead. We have an excellent executive team and I am confident that we will continue to succeed in helping to tackle the challenges of those who are marginalised in our society."

Baroness Armstrong was first elected MP for North West Durham in 1987 and before entering parliament spent time overseas as a VSO volunteer. Building on work in the social and community sectors in the North East she became a lecturer in youth and community work at Sunderland Polytechnic. Her parliamentary career included appointments as minister of state at the Department of Environment, Transport and the Regions in 1997, Parliamentary Secretary to the Treasury & Government chief whip and chancellor of the Duchy of Lancaster.

Mike Worthington, outgoing Chairman of The Cyrenians said:

"It is a great compliment to the organisation, its executive team and staff that someone of Hilary’s standing should agree to take on this role. I am both delighted and reassured and am looking forward to continuing to support the team wherever and whenever possible going forward."