Justice charity names new CEO

Switchback, which supports former prisoners to resettle in the community, has named Sian Williams as its next chief executive.

She joins in October from East London based community organisation Toynbee Hall, where she is its policy and innovation director.

Williams replaces Switchback founder Alice Dawney, who announced she was standing down in May.

According to the charity nine out of ten former prisoners it supports do not reoffend, compared to half of all prison leavers.



“We’re delighted to appoint Sian as Switchback’s next CEO. Sian’s leadership, thoughtfulness and commitment to Switchback’s values impressed everyone she met, from trustees to the staff team and former Switchback Trainees,” said Switchback chair Duncan Shrubsole.

“We’re all indebted to Switchback’s founder Alice Dawnay for her original vision and for
establishing Switchback as a leading justice charity. With Sian we believe we have found the
right person to both nurture and evolve that legacy.”

Williams added: “Alice has established one of the most impactful charities in the UK, helping hundreds of young men build totally different lives after prison.

“It’s an honour to have the opportunity to build on such an impressive legacy.”

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