Meet the trustees

Phil has dedicated his professional life to improving the lives of young people in Worcester through his work at Perdiswell Young People’s Leisure Club. He was awarded the Officer of the Order of the British Empire (OBE) in 2007 in recognition of his outstanding service to youth development, inclusion, and community life.

Phil first became involved with Perdiswell at the age of 19, beginning as a volunteer while working for the Midlands Electricity Board. Alongside full-time employment, he devoted his spare time to the club for 15 years, undertaking basic youth work training and supporting young people through a wide range of activities. His dedication and leadership led to a paid role, and he then served as Development Manager and trustee of the organisation.

As Development Manager, Phil supported a team of 27 staff and played a central role in securing funding to sustain and expand the club’s services. Under his guidance, Perdiswell underwent significant development in three key phases. In 1989 the club moved from an old wartime hut into new premises, followed by major extensions in 1994 and again in 2000, enabling it to grow into a vibrant, modern facility open every day of the week.

Perdiswell Young People’s Leisure Club catered primarily for young people aged 12 and over, welcoming all regardless of background, ability, or circumstance. The club provided a blend of educational, recreational, and support services, including access to youth workers, sexual health specialists, and teenage pregnancy advisors. Phil was particularly committed to ensuring that there was always a trusted professional on site, allowing young people to seek advice and support whenever they needed it.

The club offered a wide range of activities, from camping and rock climbing to a dance school attended by around 150 young people. Its skate park, opened in 2005, regularly attracted up to 100 users, while additional services included pre-school facilities and a youth inclusion project aimed at supporting vulnerable young people.

Phil’s motivation was rooted in seeing young people thrive. He was passionate about working with those from deprived or challenging backgrounds, helping them build confidence, friendships, and life opportunities. He attributed the club’s success to listening to young people themselves and involving them directly in shaping the services and activities offered.

Despite the challenges of navigating complex policies, procedures, and risk assessments, Phil remained steadfast in his belief in youth work as a force for positive change. His OBE, awarded in 2007, was met with widespread congratulations from the community he had served for so long, reflecting the profound and lasting impact of his work.