Ricky works tirelessly as a volunteer to develop relationships and partnerships, run our sports activity programme and helps with mentoring young people.

Ron was born in Jarrow and lived his first 20 years in South Shields. He is passionate about young people, has run Charities at national and regional level and excited to be working with Ricky and the developing team to make good things happen.

His charity experience also includes youth offending, education, mental health, homelessness, hospice and life limiting disease, disability and disadvantage.

ron@hoodex.charity. 07939 510922

Chelsea supports the day-to-day running and development of HoodEx Charity, bringing her experience in community and youth work to help strengthen the charity's services and support for vulnerable young people. Working on a voluntary basis for 10 hours a week, she is also helping to develop fundraising activities and build the charity's capacity to make a lasting difference in the communities it serves.

chelsea@hoodex.charity

We’re delighted to welcome Mark Bellingham as Patron and Special Advisor for HoodEx. With over two decades of service in the West Midlands Police, rising to the rank of sergeant, Mark has extensive experience working closely with local communities. His insight and hands-on experience in community engagement will be invaluable as we continue to support young people and strengthen our local connections.

During his policing career, Mark enjoyed a prolific spell as a non-league footballer, scoring over 700 goals — a testament to his dedication and commitment both on and off the pitch.

Mark is also the father of Jude and Jobe Bellingham, both making waves in professional football.

The family’s passion for sport and community aligns perfectly with the values of HoodEx, and we are honoured to have Mark supporting us in this role.

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Chelsea is a dedicated community and youth work professional with experience in safeguarding, youth advocacy and support services. She is passionate about inclusion and ensuring that all young people, whatever their background, have the support and opportunities they need to thrive.

As a Trustee, Chelsea brings a strong background in community and youth work, with hands-on experience supporting vulnerable young people and adults at risk. She has practical skills in safeguarding, homelessness support and risk assessment, alongside formal qualifications in youth work. In addition to her Trustee role, Chelsea is currently volunteering 10 hours a week as HoodEx's Charity Manager, supporting the charity's development and day-to-day work. She is committed to helping young people build confidence, overcome barriers and realise their potential.

Growing up in Gateshead, Harrison Askew has a deep personal connection to the North East and a strong commitment to widening opportunity for young people across the region. He is passionate about ensuring that vulnerable young people in North Tyneside have access to consistent, high-quality mentoring, networks and support that can help them build confidence and progress into education, training and work.

Harrison is Development Lead for Industrial Energy & Heat Networks at Veolia UK, where he works with local authorities and major organisations to develop investable, low-carbon infrastructure projects. As a Trustee, he brings strategic planning, partnership-building and governance experience, and a practical, community-focused mindset to support the charity’s mission and long-term impact