For the next inspiring story celebrating our staff in the community, we hear from Lauren Rabbatts, who, in addition to her role as Head of Strategic Initiatives & Partnerships for the Department of Enterprise and Engagement, dedicates some of her spare time serving the community as volunteer Water Safety Officer for the Royal National Lifeboat Institution (RNLI) and Chair of the Board of Directors for Children & Families Limited (C&F).

In this blog, we delve into Lauren’s experience specifically with C&F, her motivations, and the invaluable contributions she has made.

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Tell us a bit about the role and organisation…

It is my honour to be the current Chair of the Board of Directors for Children & Families Limited (C&F), a role I have held for 7 years. C&F is a Kent charity based in Swale and consists of 4 separate companies, in three main strands: Child & Family Services, Food Services and Early Education & Childcare. The companies or projects under each theme are listed below and all support the Mission of the charity:  ‘Working together to give children and families the best opportunities in life’

What do you think you have learnt/gained from the role?

It was a learning experience from day one; learning how to analyse the monthly accounts, setting budgets, offering strategic oversight without getting drawn into the nitty-gritty, how to assess risk and make sure the charity meets the principles of good governance.

What do you think you have brought to the Governing Board (your skills, expertise, etc)?

This is probably a question to ask my CEO, however from my perspective I bring leadership to the Board of Directors, particularly in developing, sustaining and managing partnerships at a senior level within the education and public sectors. I also have proven commercial sector experience, through the leadership and oversight of the social enterprise functions of FareShare Kent.

From your time as a Trustee, what has been your highlight/most memorable moment?

Seeing the charity grow and flourish to become one of the foremost children’s charities and the largest surplus food redistribution charity in Kent. This is reflected in the success of C&F at local and national charity awards events.

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Lauren’s journey from Trustee to Chair exemplifies the profound symbiotic impact dedicated volunteers can have on their communities. We are #cccuproud!