New man in charge at Age UK South Tyneside

Age UK South Tyneside has announced Sean Gladwin as its new chief officer.

He will officially take up the role in July but has already been working alongside colleagues in preparation for his new post.

Sean has more than 20 years’ experience working and volunteering in the public, charity and third sectors, supporting some of society’s most vulnerable people.

Within his career he has held a range of positions, from working front line with vulnerable people to more senior management positions.

He said: “Having met with some of the staff team, board members and stakeholders I can see how passionate they are about delivering excellent services and making a difference to the lives of older people. I am excited to be joining the team so that we can work together to continue to build on their good work and success.”

Pauline Smith, chair of trustees at Age UK South Tyneside, which is based in Beach Road, South Shields, added: “I am thrilled that Age UK South Tyneside has been able to appoint such a strong, dynamic and innovative leader.

“My fellow board members and I are very much looking forward to welcoming Sean and working closely with him to continue supporting the older people 
of South Tyneside and delivering effective local services and continuing to work with partners.”

Last year, the Gazette revealed that a member of staff at Age UK South Tyneside had been suspended following fraud allegations.

A source revealed the allegations came to light after auditors checked the books of the charity.

The Charity Commission – a Government-run body which registers and regulates charities in England and Wales to ensure that the public can support organisations with confidence - said it had been notified by Age UK of a “serious incident involving a possible fraud against the charity”.

Northumbria Police confirmed that two people had been interviewed under caution concerning the allegations.