Celebrating Trustees’ Week: Meet Katie Crompton, City of Hull Street Angels

This Trustees’ Week, we’re celebrating the local people who help charities across Hull and East Yorkshire thrive. Many of you will already know Katie Crompton as our Community Development Officer at HEY Smile Foundation. Outside work, Katie is also a trustee of City of Hull Street Angels.

City of Hull Street Angels is run entirely by volunteers. They patrol the city centre on weekend evenings and during major events, offering first aid, water, flip-flops and foil blankets, and helping vulnerable people get home safely.

From volunteer to trustee

Katie volunteered with Street Angels for about five years before applying to become a trustee when a vacancy came up.

“During that time, I developed a strong understanding of the charity’s work in Hull and the positive impact it has on the local community,” she said. “I felt my knowledge and experience could be valuable in supporting the Board and helping the organisation continue to grow and develop.”

What the role involves

As a trustee, Katie attends monthly Board meetings and helps shape the charity’s governance and future direction. She also leads on recruiting new volunteers. She meets prospective volunteers, explains how the organisation works, and makes sure they have everything they need to start their role with confidence.

Katie has also attended the Trustee Network run by HEY Smile Foundation. “Guest speakers have shared valuable knowledge on topics such as safeguarding, GDPR, finance and the role of the Chair,” she said.

A proud moment

For Katie, one moment stands out. City of Hull Street Angels received the King’s Award for Voluntary Service, the highest award a volunteer group can receive in the UK. It was announced in November 2025 and presented by the Lord-Lieutenant of the East Riding in April 2026.

“Without a doubt, the moment that made me most proud was when we were awarded the King’s Award for Voluntary Service,” she said. “Receiving such prestigious recognition highlighted the dedication of our volunteers and the positive difference the organisation makes within the community.”

What she has gained

“Becoming a trustee has given me a much greater understanding of what happens behind the scenes to keep a charity running effectively,” Katie said.

“It has opened my eyes to the level of responsibility involved, and the work required to make sure the organisation operates within its charitable structure while continuing to meet the needs of the people it supports.”

Her advice

“If you are passionate about a cause, I would encourage you to take that first step and get involved,” she said.

“Everyone brings different skills, experiences and perspectives, and these can make a real difference to a charity. You don’t need to know everything before you start. There are plenty of opportunities to learn and develop along the way.”

Thank you, Katie, for everything you do for City of Hull Street Angels and the people of Hull.