Base71 Youth Zone has appointed Helen Jaggar as its Interim Chair, succeeding founding Chair Matthew Stephens.
Helen, currently Vice-Chair, will lead the board through the Youth Zone’s final stages of development and into its opening in early 2026.
Matthew Stephens has been instrumental in establishing Base71, guiding the project through the board formation and the critical construction phases from its inception to the brink of completion.
Under his leadership, the organisation is in a strong position to deliver transformative opportunities for Barnsley’s young people.
Helen brings a wealth of experience to the role, including her recent position as Vice-Chair of Governors at Barnsley College and her previous role as CEO of Berneslai Homes. She will chair the board through the Youth Zone’s launch while supporting the search for a long-term successor.
Mandy Carlson, CEO of Base71, said: “On behalf of the team and the board, I want to thank Matthew for his incredible dedication and leadership in bringing Base 71 to this stage. I’m also thrilled to welcome Helen as Interim Chair. Her expertise and experience will be invaluable as we move into the opening phase and ensure this Youth Zone becomes a safe, inspiring, and transformative space for Barnsley’s young people.”
