Richard Stakes - Chair
Richard recently retired after a long career in mathematics education, though he continues to enjoy supporting both students and teachers, primarily online. He first became involved with Chance as a volunteer before joining the Board of Trustees in 2020, and he takes great pride in the charity’s achievements and impact.
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Sport has always been a passion for Richard, and although he admits his skills have not always matched his enthusiasm, he now enjoys playing walking rugby with a sociable group that ensures the game remains both active and fun.
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Richard is honoured to take on the role of Chair at Chance following the retirement of Sandra Link, who has provided outstanding leadership for the past eight years. He recognises the inspiring example she has set and, while her shoes will be hard to fill, he hopes to continue building on the excellent work achieved under her guidance.
Lou Vasey - Trustee
In January 2018 Lou went to the Saturday Kitchen, at that time operating out of St Stephens Church, to donate some food for the ‘take away’ bags. She was asked to stay that night and help with the washing up, and hasn’t left since, being appointed to the board of Trustees in August 2020.
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Lou has worked for more than thirty years in the advertising industry, being responsible for the production of broadcast commercials in places as diverse as Mount Rushmore, Hong Kong Harbour, and the Victorian sewers under Bolton.
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She has worked continually in the Saturday Kitchen forming trusting relationships with those that attend, firmly believing that vulnerable and/or homeless is what they are, not who they are and that it is important not just to look at people, but also look out for them.
Darren Evans - Trustee
Originally from Pontypridd in south Wales, Darren left school at 16. He began working for his Local Authority straight away and continued to do so in highways, community development, policy and social care, eventually finishing his local government career as a Director of Social Care and Housing in Staffordshire.
Darren comes from an extremely modest background and strongly believes that education and improving your skillset are a very positive way to improve one's circumstances.
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Darren has in the past, worked at Sandbach Foodbank.
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Darren has a keen interest in politics; he has a passion for running, and has completed the London, Paris, Berlin and Chicago marathons. He also enjoys swimming, golf, and football.
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Juliette Boland - Trustee
Juliette became a trustee with Chance Changing Lives in November 2024, her current professional role is with West Cheshire Credit Union as a Community Outreach Officer. Juliette brings valuable experience to the charity in financial education and community engagement. Juliette’s expertise in helping individuals manage personal finances, access affordable credit solutions, and develop sustainable budgeting strategies enhances the ability of Chance to provide practical, actionable advice.
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Juliette is passionate about fostering financial literacy and is committed to making a positive impact on the lives of those facing debt-related challenges.
Prior to commencing the Trustee role, Juliette was a valued member of the Chance volunteer team and spent a great deal of her time supporting service users in the Saturday Kitchen.
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Tim Hiscock - Trustee
Tim works part-time as a business advisor and trainer, supporting companies as they develop and grow their export activities. Alongside this, he contributes articles to magazines and business websites, sharing his experience and insights.
Tim joined Chance Changing Lives as a trustee in September 2025 and is enthusiastic about being part of the charity’s work and community.
Outside of his professional life, Tim enjoys music, photography, and country walking. A keen folk music enthusiast, he regularly attends festivals and loves discovering new artists. Looking ahead to his planned retirement in 2026, Tim is excited to spend more time with Chance, on his hobbies, and with his family.
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Jane Emery - Trustee
Jane joined the board in October 2025, bringing with her a mix of professional experience and a real passion for helping others.
Before starting her family, Jane trained as a general nurse in London and went on to specialise in oncology. After spending a year in Canada, she and her family settled in Cheshire in 2003.
While raising her children, Jane got involved in her local community through the Christian Aid and Fair Trade committees. In 2012, she set up the Nantwich Foodbank, which she ran for eight years before moving on to become an Area Manager for Trussell, supporting foodbanks and other anti-poverty initiatives. In her current role, Jane works with around ten charities, helping them develop their strategy, strengthen their governance, and support their volunteers.
Outside of work, she enjoys gardening, getting creative with crafts, and spending time with family and close friends.
At the heart of everything Jane does is a simple belief — that everyone should be treated with compassion and dignity, and that no one in the UK should have to face hunger or live without a safe place to call home.
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