Youth charity Winning Scotland has named Zahra Hedges as its next chief executive.

She joins from the Scottish Government, where she was a senior policy advisor supporting councils to roll out mental health services for children and families.

Hedges, who has also worked for Community Enterprise in Scotland, replaces Morag Arnot, who had led the charity as executive director since 2013.

“I am delighted to be joining Winning Scotland at this pivotal time,” said Hedges.

“We know that building resilience and confidence in our children and young people will be crucial not only in helping them to navigate the uncertain times ahead, but also in raising aspirations and attainment levels more generally.

“Winning Scotland has an excellent track record in realising big ambitions and has been at the forefront of work around developing positive mindsets - in sport, in communities, in schools and beyond for more than a decade.

“I'm looking forward to joining the team and supporting them as we move into the next phase of development."

Winning Scotland chairman Sir Bill Gammell added: “The board is thrilled with Zahra’s appointment. She brings a wealth of experience, networks and energy to the role and we are confident that, with Zahra at the helm, our major impact in Scotland will continue to go from strength to strength.”

“I would also like to record the board's thanks to Morag Arnot, who has done an outstanding job leading and developing Winning Scotland over the past eight years.”

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