Ex-Police Safeguarding Leader Joins Vennture as New COO
Herefordshire charity Vennture has appointed Jon Roberts as its new Chief Operating Officer, effective 1 August 2025.
Jon, a father of four from North Herefordshire, brings 30 years of policing experience, including senior safeguarding roles at national and regional levels. He will help lead the charity, alongside CEO Rob Thomas and trustees, and expand its work with vulnerable adults, families and care-experienced young people. This newly created role comes as the charity sector faces falling funding, rising costs, and soaring demand. Paul Ballard, Vennture’s Chair of Trustees says these challenges can also create opportunities for innovation, including shaping Vennture programmes and the ways in which the charity is funded.
Rob Thomas commented: “Jon’s exceptional safeguarding experience, combined with his deep commitment to our community, will be invaluable as we continue to grow. Jon’s appointment significantly strengthens Vennture’s leadership at a pivotal time. His expertise positions us to grow our impact, work more strategically with public agencies, and ensure we are ready to deliver against emerging policy priorities and commissioning opportunities. This is a key step in making Vennture an even stronger, more effective partner for the communities we serve.”
Vennture is known through programmes such as Street Pastors, Lean-on-Me, Family Pastors, and Ambassadors—relational, volunteer-led initiatives helping those facing crisis, homelessness, or vulnerability. The charity supported 174 families, 164 individuals, and provided emergency accommodation to dozens during 2024.
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