Celebrating Trustees’ Week: Spotlight on Christine Hornshaw, Chair of Platform Provision

As part of Trustees’ Week 2025, HEY Smile Foundation is celebrating the remarkable individuals who give their time, experience and passion to strengthen local charities. Among them is Christine Hornshaw, Chair of Trustees and a founding member of Platform Provision, a Hull-based charity supporting young people with complex needs and disabilities.

Christine’s journey into trusteeship began with a very personal motivation — one rooted in family, compassion and the drive to create change.

Turning Personal Experience into Purpose

“My journey as a trustee began from a very personal place,” Christine explains. “My granddaughter has a profound disability and complex medical needs, and when full-time education ended, we struggled to find somewhere that truly understood her. We wanted a place that celebrated her abilities, not just managed her needs — somewhere she could continue to learn and thrive.”

Seeing that many families were facing the same struggle inspired Christine to act. Along with others who shared her passion, she helped establish Platform Provision — a joyful, inclusive space where young people with complex needs are fully valued and supported.

“Eight years on, it’s incredible to see how far we’ve come,” she says. “What started as an idea born out of necessity has become a lifeline for so many families.”

Seeing the Difference Every Day

For Christine, the most rewarding part of being a trustee is witnessing the impact their work has on young people and their families.

“The best part is seeing the difference we make — watching service users grow in confidence, enjoy meaningful experiences and develop new skills,” she says. “You can see the relief and joy it brings to families to know their young person is safe, happy and supported.”

Platform Provision provides not just practical support, but a sense of belonging for families who previously felt isolated. “That feeling of trust and community is priceless,” she adds.

Building Strength and Purpose

Christine describes her experience as a trustee as completely life-changing. “It has given me a deep sense of purpose,” she says. “It’s reinforced my belief in what communities can achieve when people come together with compassion and determination.”

The process has not been without its challenges. “Building something from the ground up hasn’t been easy,” she admits. “But it’s been a wonderful journey that’s taught me resilience and shown me the power of teamwork.”

A Milestone Moment

One of the most significant milestones for Christine and Platform Provision was securing their first dedicated building.

“Having our own premises changed everything,” she recalls. “It meant we could expand our services, invest in specialist equipment, and create a safe, stimulating environment designed around the needs of our young people. That moment marked a real turning point for us as a charity.”

This achievement not only gave Platform Provision stability but also strengthened its ability to deliver high-quality, life-enhancing care for those who rely on its support.

Lessons in Leadership and Collaboration

Through her work as a trustee, Christine has learned that effective leadership isn’t about having all the answers — it’s about passion, teamwork and collaboration.

“You don’t need to know everything to make a difference,” she reflects. “What matters is surrounding yourself with the right people and working together toward a shared goal. We’ve achieved so much more through collective effort than I ever imagined possible.”

Seeing the Bigger Picture

Christine’s role has also deepened her understanding of the wider charity sector and the essential role it plays in supporting families who often fall through the gaps in statutory provision.

“It’s opened my eyes to how many families face barriers every day,” she says. “The charity sector fills those gaps — it gives hope, support and belonging where it’s needed most. That’s why it’s so important that we continue to advocate for inclusivity, accessibility and equal opportunities for all.”

Inspiring Change Through Compassion

Christine Hornshaw’s story embodies the true spirit of Trustees’ Week — showing how one person’s determination to make life better for a loved one can grow into a movement that transforms an entire community.

Through her leadership at Platform Provision, Christine has helped create an environment where young people with complex needs are celebrated, families are supported, and inclusion is at the heart of everything.