A new Director from the third sector has boosted Dorset Chamber’s Board.

The business support organisation has welcomed Gareth Sherwood, YMCA Bournemouth Chief Executive, as it steps up representation for charities, social enterprises and voluntary groups.

He takes a seat as a Non-Executive Director on Dorset Chamber’s 11-strong Board alongside other figures from the county’s business community.

YMCA Bournemouth is a longstanding and active chamber member and supporter with strong links to the business community.

Ian Girling, Dorset Chamber Chief Executive, said: “A very warm welcome to Gareth.

“He brings a wealth of experience and knowledge to our already strong board of directors.

“As well as helping to steer the Dorset Chamber forward he will be able to represent the third sector and give key insights into its relationship with business.

“We have a dynamic and diverse board of directors who are all committed to the chamber’s mission to enable better lives through business.

“Business is a force for good, and Gareth’s appointment will further help us to drive the local economy with benefits for businesses, their employees and the wider Dorset community.”

Ian and many Dorset Chamber members have been among the firms to support YMCA Bournemouth’s annual Big Sleep Easy.

Participants in the 2022 Big Sleep Easy. Picture: Paul Collins/PC Visuals.

The initiative has raised more than £200,000 since 2016 to raise awareness of local homelessness and fund projects that aim to keep individuals safe from homelessness over the long-term.

The charity, based in Westover Road in Bournemouth, provides many services including youth clubs, children’s centres, a pre-school, a child contact centre, sports and leisure facilities, training courses, youth work and a chaplaincy service.

Gareth, who has been working in Christian and charity services since 2007, said: “It is humbling to be given this opportunity to serve Dorset with the chamber.

“I will endeavour to help local businesses, charities and communities to thrive and be a force for good to all they reach.”

The Dorset Chamber Board comprises Chief Executive Ian Girling, President Caron Khan, Vice-President and Chair of Council of Ambassadors Tony Brown, Past President Liz Willingham, Honorary Solicitor Matthew Fretten, Honorary Treasurer Lesley Fox and Non-Executive Directors Simon Boyd, Lesley Keets, Nicky Busst and Phil Popham.