Suzy takes the Chair

Welcome to our wonderful Chair of Trustees Suzy Dymond-White!

Suzy became Chair of Trustees in 2024 and she talked to us about her long history of working with Changing Tunes, what she appreciates most about our culture, and her advice for anyone thinking of becoming a charity trustee.

Q. Hi Suzy, Congratulations on becoming Chair of the Board of Trustees at Changing Tunes! Please can you tell us a bit about your background and what attracted you to this role?

Suzy: Thank you! I have worked with Changing Tunes for over 20 years in prisons. My background is governing prisons; I have 37 years of operational prison experience. I have seen the value that being involved with music can bring to individuals and wider prison life.

The impact is longer lasting than the prison sentence. Changing Tunes has integrity and credibility and offers a reliable service to people who have so often seen so much chaos in their lives. It is the safe space so many need to find.

Q. What is it about Changing Tunes’ mission that made you want to become a Board member, and now Chair?

Suzy: I really value and appreciate the ethos and culture of Changing Tunes. They never put pressure on people to achieve targets or qualifications, they let them develop confidence and grow how they want to at a pace that suits them. It’s a really individualised approach. It is a real privilege to be part of allowing that to happen.

Q. What do you think are currently the biggest opportunities for Changing Tunes and how can the Board support the organisation to take advantage of them?

Suzy: The staff team are a talented bunch expertly led by Dave (CEO David Jones). He is so creative and has such a positive energy. His vision will ensure Changing Tunes stays relevant without losing its core mission. As a Board we will be able to offer a broad range of skills and experience to support the ongoing work of the charity by offering guidance and assurance.

Q. What is your vision for the future of Changing Tunes?

Suzy: I would like to see Changing Tunes offer the value of music and performance to as many people in custodial settings as possible. I would like to see the profile grow to ensure that everyone in this arena knows the Changing Tunes offer and understands it to be the leader in its field.

Q. Finally, what advice would you give to someone who is thinking about becoming a trustee of a charity? What personal qualities make a good trustee?

Suzy: It is such a rewarding experience being a trustee. You get to be part of something so valuable and work with people who all want to give in order to support a special cause. The personal qualities required are a passion for helping and giving to make a positive difference.

If you have a small amount of time and work well within a team, like to support the work of a charity, and value being part of that community, then I can’t recommend it enough. We do some great social stuff too!

You can find out more about the wonderful Changing Tunes team here.