Trustee - Interim Chair

Born and raised in Blackpool, Mike has dedicated over 30 years to the charity sector, working in both frontline and leadership roles. His journey began as a volunteer at Streetlife’s Night Shelter in central Blackpool, where he witnessed first-hand the challenges faced by young people experiencing homelessness. That early experience shaped his lifelong belief that, with the right support, young people can overcome adversity and thrive.

Mike is now an experienced CEO and charity trustee, passionate about the power of small, local organisations led by committed local staff and volunteers. He brings a deep understanding of grassroots support, strategic leadership, and the importance of community-led change. Mike was delighted to received an MBE in the King's 2025 New Year's Honours List.

Mike is proud to serve as a Trustee of Sam’s Place. He believes their work is unique, compassionate, and transformative—changing lives for the better every day.

Secretary

My name is Joanne, I am married to Andy and we have two adult daughters and four grandchildren.

After 36 years teaching in the SEND sector, I retired from my post as Deputy Headteacher at Highfurlong School in July 2020. During my long and happy teaching career I have always maintained a passion for supporting post 16 and post 19 education and opportunities for young people who have additional needs. I enjoyed forging strong links with a range of local community projects with a focus on increased independence and widening experiences for our young people. During my time as senior teacher, I was responsible for work related learning and enterprise education, our good practice resulted in recognition locally, nationally and internationally.

I am enjoying a busy retirement which is centred around travel, gardening and spending time with our grandchildren.

As a Trustee for Sam’s Place, I endeavour to support our Project Leads and volunteers, in order to ensure ongoing opportunities for our members to learn new skills, increase independence and being able to meet up with friends to have fun.

Treasurer

Hi, my name is Susan Lancaster & I am currently the treasurer for Sam’s Place. I am retired now after spending the last 10 yrs of my working life in Public Health & The Volunteer Centre where I was a Project Assistant & volunteer mentor. Going out into the community & workplaces as part of a large team of services doing health checks & giving social help including signposting to various services within Blackpool. My cousins daughter has Downs Syndrome so have some idea of the needs of young ones with additional needs. I am a wife, a mum & a nana. I am also disabled. I enjoy crafting especially card making when I get opportunity. What I would say is I am committed to helping Sam’s place thrive & grow.

Trustee

I was born in Blackpool and grew up in the area and have been an owner of the Plant Place garden centre for over 20 years . Me and Diane are both passionate supporters of Sam’s Place since it began and we have direct experience of the difficulties the young people face as 3 of our 4 children have additional needs. We know how important it is that we provide support for the charity both in resources and advice and we recognise that there is a lack of structured support for these young adults when they leave school . It is vital that they can go somewhere to mix with people of their own age in a safe, structured environment that grows their life skills.

Trustee

I was born in Blackpool and grew up in the area and have been an owner of the Plant Place garden centre for over 20 years . Me and Simon are both passionate supporters of Sam’s Place since it began and we have direct experience of the difficulties the young people face as 3 of our 4 children have additional needs. We know how important it is that we provide support for the charity both in resources and advice and we recognise that there is a lack of structured support for these young adults when they leave school . It is vital that they can go somewhere to mix with people of their own age in a safe, structured environment that grows their life skills.

Trustee

Neill is Headteacher at Highfurlong Special School. He works as a SEND and Inclusion consultant across the UK and internationally. Neill is also a keen musician and has extensive experience of trustee and charity work across the SEND and Arts sectors.

Trustee

Michelle lives on the Fylde Coast and has worked in adult social care for nearly 30 years. After leaving school, she chose and began a journey of learning within the constantly evolving social care landscape. Michelle works for a local charity who provides support, accommodation, and activities for adults with Autism or a Learning Disability. Michelles passion is to continually improve and develop quality services for people with Autism or a Learning Disability.

Trustee

Bio coming soon…

Trustee

I’m Carla I am Sam’s mum. I have been involved with Sam’s Place when the concept was an idea of Dr David Cooper along with Sam who also thought it was going to be something special. After Sam’s passing in 2007 I have been fully supportive of the charity and everything it means to the young people who attend and their families. I only wish Sam was still with us to be a part of the amazing things that have happened over the years. As a trustee I love to see and hear the positive impact Sam’s Place has on the lives of our special members and hope to be able to continue to help the charity grow.