Dingley’s Promise, a children’s SEND charity, appoints first ever COO

A Newbury charity which supports children with special educational needs and disabilities (SEND) has welcomed its first chief operating officer, writes Imogen Uwins.

Dingley’s Promise, which offers nursery provision and developmental support to SEND children in the early years and supports families, has announced Lee Friend has taken up the new post.

Mr Friend has worked in childcare for more than 15 years across a range of settings, including charity playgroups, schools and nurseries.

He said: “I’m thrilled to be the chief operating officer for Dingley’s Promise and I have always been passionate about ensuring that every child has the best start in their educational journey.

“I love working with families, colleagues and local authorities because together we can ensure that the children are at the heart of everything we do and as a result give them the very best start.”

Mr Friend has been in management roles since 2016 during which time he has developed a wealth of knowledge and experience in helping others. He has also gained several qualifications in leadership, management and supporting young people with their mental health.

CEO of Dingley’s Promise, Catherine McLeod, said: “I am so excited to announce the arrival of Dingley's Promise first ever Chief Operations Officer.

“It’s a huge step for the organisation and an amazing moment for me to have a colleague to oversee all our operations and to represent the organisation externally alongside me. This is a new role to match our growth.”

Mr Friend’s appointment comes as Dingley’s Promise celebrates 40 years since it was founded.

To mark the milestone year the charity has released a video featuring some of the many parents and children who have benefitted from the service over the years which can be viewed here - https://youtu.be/Umzp53O-jss