We are pleased to announce that Paul Storey has been appointed Charity Director of Older Citizen’s Advocacy York (OCAY) in August 2024. OCAY provides advocacy and practical support to people over 50 in the York area, to access services and benefits, which have a positive impact on people’s lives.

This new role has been established due to the significant growth in the charity’s caseload over the past few years. In just the first six months of this year, OCAY has handled as many cases as it previously did in an entire year. They needed a leader who could take a long-term view of the organisation and guide it through the transition from small to small-to-medium-sized charity.

 

In addition to managing OCAY’s current operations strategically, OCAY required someone to plan for growth to better support clients and given the challenging  economic climate, to evaluate and plan future finances and funding sources.

 

With over 10 years’ leadership experience in the charity sector, Paul’s professional philosophy centres on collaboration at every level to eliminate unnecessary barriers, drive systemic change and enhance the user experience. During his time in the third sector, Paul has worked on projects dealing with public health, equalities, suicide prevention, training and skills.

 

On joining OCAY, Paul says “My goal for OCAY is to preserve all the great things it already does while exploring opportunities to build on that success. My previous roles have all focused on empowering people to make positive changes about their own lives and I have had the privilege of witnessing individuals overcome significant obstacles and achieve remarkable things. I’ve found OCAY to be a really kind, welcoming, and inclusive working environment, free of egos, where everyone is truly dedicated to serving others. I’m looking forward to working alongside the staff, volunteers and Trustees, to continue their excellent work.”

 

This appointment coincides with a change in the charity’s chair. Gillian Caldicott, formerly deputy chair is taking over the reins from Matthew Knight who has expertly led the charity and Trustees for the last 3 years and will continue on as deputy chair. Semi-retired learning and development consultant Gillian has over 30 years’ experience developing leaders and managers in diverse market sectors.

 

Gillian comments on the appointment: ““OCAY is very proud of its accomplishments to date, which have been achieved thanks to Matthew’s exceptional leadership and expertise. As I step into the role of Chair with the board’s support, I am eager to help Paul gain a thorough understanding of the organisation and am excited to see his leadership guide us to the next stage of our development.”

 

Through a dedicated team of friendly, caring and trained volunteers and staff, OCAY’s work is crucial for a number of reasons. Individuals may feel overwhelmed by bureaucratic processes, unsure of their entitlements, lack support networks, encounter communication barriers or digital exclusion, and experience financial difficulties. OCAY is helping make a real difference to people’s lives.

 

Paul will play a vital role in taking the organisation on the next stage of its journey, proving clear strategic direction as agreed with the Trustees. As Charity Director he will manage, directly or indirectly, all OCAY’s staffing and resources, and will organise a platform for sensible future growth based on financial sustainability and a diversified funding base.