John Hartshorn has over 35 years experience in the management and delivery of youth work and charitable support. During his time as CEO of a homelessness charity John grew the organisation from 14 to 54 staff, negotiated two mergers and set the organisation as a leader in its field. 

Qualified in Youth & Community work and trained to Master Practitioner level in NLP (Neuro-Linguistic Programming) John has a particular interest in organisational change to ensure effectiveness and efficiency.  John is a strategic thinker and planner and has held positions on several public sector boards where he is noted for his ability to move strategic thinking into practical implementation. John is also an experienced leader and teacher of carnival arts and samba percussion, using a fast-track style.

Salli Ward has over 25 years experience working with children, parents, families and adults within the voluntary, public and business sectors. Previously Salli has built up a community-based therapy service for young people and has worked within three NHS psychiatry departments. 

As CEO of a charity for children and parents in family court proceedings, Salli developed a comprehensive assessment and support service and was involved in direct service delivery as an Expert Witness in court.

Salli is an experienced public speaker and trainer having provided services to professionals including medics and the judiciary. Salli is a qualified drama psychotherapist and holds an MA in the Ethics of Social Welfare. She is a skilled wordsmith with a special interest in grief and loss, arising from personal experience and professional involvement as a therapist. Salli is a local charity trustee and involved with several other voluntary and campaign organisations.

John and Salli married in 1996, each bringing a brood of children into their relationship. Raised through shared parenting those children are now out on their own doing great things in the world. Salli and John now travel the country on their live-aboard narrowboat, Lonesome George.