Jennifer Beveridge appointed chair of The PFC Trust with mission to unite Tees Valley communities

The PFC Trust's new chair Jennifer Beveridge with the charity's founder Frances Connolly and outgoing chair Shaun Hope. Picture: Tom Banks 

The PFC Trust has announced the appointment of Jennifer Beveridge as its new Chair, signalling a fresh chapter for the Hartlepool-based charity as it continues to expand its reach across the Tees Valley and beyond.

Jennifer, 46, succeeds founding chair Shaun Hope, who steps aside after years of dedicated leadership to remain on the board as a trustee.

A resident of the region for over two decades, Jennifer brings a wealth of business acumen and a passion for community synergy to the role at a time when the Trust is widening its geographical footprint.

Jennifer’s appointment comes after what she describes as a "three-year apprenticeship" as a trustee, during which she immersed herself in the challenges facing Hartlepool and the wider Teesside area.

“As the next chair after Shaun Hope, I know that so much good work, structure and enthusiasm has been embedded into the Trust because of his leadership,” said Jennifer.

“I am exceptionally proud to be in this role. I’m not trying to fill those big shoes, but I can come in with my own perspective.

“My focus is simple: I want us to look outside of ourselves with a sharp focus on the community. We want to find those who need support to build on the fantastic stuff already happening.

“Our model is to raise funds, help deserving causes, and ensure that the experts already doing good work in the community can become sustainable.”

Originally from Glen Esk in the North-East of Scotland, Jennifer moved to Teesside 22 years ago.

Outside of her professional life in her family business, she spends all of her free time riding and caring for her horses and is a devoted owner of three Boston Terriers.

Her journey with the PFC Trust began three years ago, sparked by a friendship with the charity’s founder, Frances Connolly.

One of Jennifer’s primary goals as chair is to encourage organisations across the region to "park their own agendas" and collaborate for the greater good.

She believes the PFC Trust is uniquely positioned to act as a bridge between groups with similar passions.

“I want to build on synergy,” Jennifer said. “We aren’t all on our own. Every organisation is passionate about its own direction, but greater synergy brings a greater impact to the community.

“I would love to see the PFC Trust engaging with as many organisations across Teesside as we can, encouraging people to think about what they can do to make a difference on any level.”

Jennifer’s commitment to the role is deeply influenced by the charity’s founder, Frances, whose philanthropic work has become legendary in the region.

“Frances has been a charitable person since she was a child,” said Jennifer. “Her circumstances changed overnight, and she could have bought a yacht and sailed around the world, but instead she stayed in her communities here and in Northern Ireland.

“She is outward-thinking and inspires so many people. I feel very fortunate to be around her energy.”

Frances, who created the charity after winning the EuroMillions in 2019, has expressed total confidence in Jennifer’s ability to lead the Trust into its next phase of growth.

She said: “Jen was the first person I invited to become a trustee, and it was the best decision I could have made.

“Her business acumen and life experience are invaluable. I believe the older generation should step aside at some point to let younger teams lead.

“Jen is wise enough to be a stabilising force, and I know the charity will grow from strength to strength under her watch as we help people become the best versions of themselves.”

The PFC Trust was established to improve the lives and life chances of people in Hartlepool and the surrounding areas. By providing grants, signposting and building partnerships, the charity supports individuals, groups and organisations.

Jennifer will be at the charity’s annual ball which is set to take place at Teesside University on April 18 and there are still a few tables left and sponsorship opportunities available.

*Check out www.thepfctrust.org