About Us

Meet Our Team

We have a small team of staff who coordinate our work as a charity.

Simon Errington

CEO of Children in Distress UK, North Yorkshire

Simon leads our charity and oversees all areas of our work - regularly visiting the projects and organisations we fund. He joined us as CEO of Children in Distress in June 2023, having previously served as our Co-Chair, working alongside Anne-Marie Martin.

Simon is passionate about our charity, having a long historical family connection with us. He also brings a wealth of skills experience and connections to his role. He is Director of Gundog HR & Development, dedicated to addressing the human resource challenges faced by small and medium-sized enterprises and is Co-Director at a Community Interest Company, committed to aiding individuals aged over 50 transition back into employment, training or volunteering.

Simon is a Chartered member of the Institute of Personnel and Development and has previously held roles with the Fire & Rescue Service, the Science Museum Group, and a prestigious University in York.

Outside work, Simon's commitment to empowering individuals and nurturing communities is reflected by his volunteer work with the Scout Association where he is both a Trustee and Unit Leader.

Neile Abbs

Business Development Manager, York

Neile's varied role includes coordinating our annual Shoebox Appeal campaign, supporting our charity shop managers and acknowledging kind donations to our work. Neile joined us in May 2024 and brings over 25 years of experience in retail, HR, and operational management across both the high street and the charity sector.

With a background in customer service, sales, and team motivation, she is passionate about community engagement and thrives on collaborating with others to raise awareness, secure funding, and positively impact the lives of others.

Tracy Russell

Shop Manager, Kirkbymoorside

Tracy is Manager of our Kirkbymoorside charity shop. She joined our family in April 2022 and has deep roots in the local community. Prior to working with us, Tracy worked in healthcare and caregiving and brings a wealth of experience from her former role as Assistant Manager in two separate charity shops.

Tracy is passionate about retail and community engagement and thrives on the bustling atmosphere of the shop, relishing the opportunity to welcome visitors in search of treasures, conversation and connection.

Tracy's warmth and enthusiasm make her an invaluable asset our team.

Tracy England

Shop Manager, Guisborough

Tracy is the Manager of our Guisborough shop. She joined our family in 2023. Tracy has helped transform the shop and is now one of the premier establishments in Northeast England.

Tracy has a background in retail and customer service, honing her skills over many years in the industry. She is a devoted single mother, juggling a busy life and multitude of responsibilities. She finds immense joy and fulfilment in her work and the connections she forges with people on a daily basis, thriving on the dynamic nature of her role and embracing each day with enthusiasm and a willingness to tackle whatever challenges may arise.

Above all, Tracy derives immense satisfaction from knowing that the collective efforts of herself and the dedicated team of shop volunteers are making a tangible difference to our charity. Her passion for the cause and unwavering dedication serve as a driving force behind the shop's success, inspiring others to join in the pursuit of our shared mission.

Emma Farley

Marketing Consultant, York

Emma works alongside Children in Distress to support our marketing and communications. She is passionate about working with charities and SMEs to help them make an impact. Emma helps tell the important story of our work across our website, social media, PR and other communications channels. She works with a number of charities across Yorkshire and brings her skills and experience to ensure our marketing makes a real difference.