Vault Youth Zone is delighted to announce the appointment of Michael Wilkinson as Head of Youth Work, a key leadership role that will shape the organisation’s vision for empowering young people in Preston.

Michael brings a wealth of experience in youth engagement, having previously worked at Inspire, the OnSide Youth Zone in Chorley and Fleetwood Town FC Community Trust. With a background in sports coaching and youth work, he is passionate about creating a fun, welcoming, and safe space where young people can express themselves and access life-changing opportunities.

Michael said: “It is great to be involved as Head of Youth Work at Vault Youth Zone.

“After working with other Youth Zones in the network and witnessing the incredible impact they have on young people and their communities, I am excited to contribute to providing the best opportunities for young people in Preston. The passion to support young people in the city is already evident, and by working in partnership with local youth service providers, we have a fantastic platform to make a real difference.”

Michael will oversee Vault’s dynamic universal youth work offering, ensuring that young people can engage in a diverse range of activities, including sports, creative arts, and personal development programmes. His leadership will play a crucial role in building a team of dedicated youth workers who share his vision and commitment to supporting young people on their journey.

Partnerships will also be crucial to Vault’s success and the charity is already working with other youth organisations. This includes working alongside Lancashire Youth Challenge and Foxton at Preston bus station, engaging with young people and providing opportunities and activities for them in a space within the station.

Alongside Michael, Vault Youth Zone is also pleased to welcome Natalie Dugdale as Head of HR and Operations, Nichola Strahan as Philanthropy Manager and Omar Khan as Community Engagement Manager. Natalie will lead the Youth Zone’s HR and operational functions, leading on the charity’s huge recruitment drive, creating dozens of full and part-time positions in 2025.

Nichola joins  Vault’s fundraising team and will lead on building key partnerships and securing vital funding to sustain Vault’s long-term impact.

Omar brings a wealth of local knowledge and will be integral in helping the charity build strong partnerships with the local community.

Vault Youth Zone CEO, Tim Jacques, welcomed the charity’s new appointments, saying: “I am delighted to welcome Michael, Natalie, Nichola and Omar to the Vault team. We are thrilled to have Michael leading our youth work at the charity. His experience, passion, and dedication to young people make him the perfect fit for this role. Michael’s leadership will ensure that Vault Youth Zone becomes a vibrant, inclusive, and supportive space where young people can develop their skills, build confidence, and reach their full potential.”