Reunion of Chief Executives

Local Solutions’ Chief Executive, Stephen Hawkins, and Communications Manager, Karen Paton, recently enjoyed a reunion with the organisation’s first Chief executive Officer, David Shone. The informal ‘get together’ was very fitting – given that it is the year that the organisation is celebrating its 35^th Anniversary. 

Following the founding of the organisation in 1974, when it was officially launched as Merseyside Council for Voluntary Service (MCVS), David came on board as Chief Executive Officer and continued to be the driving force behind the development of the organisation until his retirement in 1990.

The Shone family had long been involved with the milling trade. However, David always had a wish to help the needier in society and moved from the business world to the voluntary sector. This move enabled David to express his wish in helping disadvantaged and vulnerable people in society which he did so with enthusiasm and passion.

David played a pivotal role in developing a range of pioneering services within the organisation including our supported lodgings service for young homeless teenagers.

One of the first initiatives was assisting young people in their search for jobs by running the first pilot schemes in the North for the newly instituted Youth Opportunities Programme, which recruited its first trainees in 1978.

David retired in 1990 and has since moved to Dorset with his wife Sally to be closer to his wonderful family.

Steve said: “David’s energy is instilled in the organisation to this day. His emphasis has always been on ‘action’ and in encouraging people to reach their full potential. He remains much loved from those fortunate to work with him”.