Helen Cantrell

Helen Cantrell has been a Director at Family Action since June 2018. Prior to that, they were the Managing Director at Catalyst Gateway from December 2012 to June 2018, where they were responsible for the community investment across Catalyst Housing Limited. From March 2012 to December 2012, they were an Interim Justice Account Director at Avanta, and from April 2010 to March 2012, they were the CEO of Sova.

Under their leadership, Sova became a national charity with over 1200 staff and volunteers dedicated to reducing reoffending, increasing employment opportunities, and improving personal relationships. Helen was successful in working with the charity to develop its business development capabilities, operational performance and services, organisational strategic plan and reputation, profile and total rebrand.

Helen Cantrell's educational career includes earning a Bachelor's Applied Social Science from Nottingham Trent University, as well as a post-graduate Certificate of qualification in Social Work.

Their manager is David Holmes, CEO. They are on a team with Catherine O’Melia - Deputy Director, Services & Innovation Central, Claire Meek - Deputy Director, Services & Innovation North, and Ayse Hassan - Head of Helpline.