Staff and Trustees

STAFF TEAM

JONNY HEDGES

Founder & Director of Operations

Hi! I’m Jonny, one of Blank Canvas’ Founders and Director of Operations. That means I oversee the implementation of Blank Canvas’ strategy, funding, governance, staff team…. (all the fun words). The last 15 years I’ve been involved in youth work, church leadership and my last job involved strategy and digital transformation for The Church of England.
Born and raised in Redcar, I’m passionate about all that God is doing across our town and local churches.

Maternity
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ABI HEDGES

Founder & Director of Programmes

Hi! I’m Abi, Blank Canvas’ Founder and Director of Programmes, overseeing all the fun that’s going on and spend my time dreaming and planning for what more BC can do. I LOVE working with young people and equipping them to step into their full potential. I am passionate about the local church and it’s role in serving young people.
I love to chat, take photo’s, stroll on the beach and hang with my beautiful family.

ALICE McMINN

Senior Youth Worker

Hi, I’m Alice!
I’m the Senior Youth Worker at Blank Canvas, and I have the joy of leading DOXA, Compass, Youth Clubs, and YAFA. I’m passionate about walking alongside young people, encouraging them to step out in faith, dream big with God, and discover the plans He has for their lives.
Being part of Blank Canvas in Redcar is such a privilege; no two days are ever the same, and I love seeing God at work as young people grow in confidence, faith, and purpose.
Outside of youth work, I enjoy trying new foods, hanging out with friends, and saying yes to new adventures whenever I can!

Youth Worker | Engagement

STEVE CASSY

Hi, I’m Steve and I joined the Blank Canvas team in 2022 when I begun volunteering at Youth Club at St Hilda’s Church.
I joined the staff team in November 2023 and I take a lead on Workspace and our communication with parents and carers. You’ll find me hanging out across our different Blank Canvas spaces and working 1:1 with young people through YAFA!
I’m part of Sacred Heart Church in Redcar and love to see churches across the town working together for good!

Youth Worker

HANNAH GARNER

Hey, I'm Hannah! I've volunteered on team for the past three years across the blank canvas spaces and loved every moment. Now on staff, you'll find me working 1-1 with young people, in our safe spaces, and at SNL.
Born and raised in Redcar, it’s a privilege to serve the incredible young people of this town and help change the narrative—being the hands and feet of Jesus.
When I’m not with this wild bunch, I’m probably sea swimming or spending time with my amazing family, friends, and of course, Jesus!

Chair of Trustees

MARK TATE

Treasurer

TIM THEOBALDS

ALICE LAMBERT-ELLIS

Safeguarding Trustee

BRIDGET WOODALL

Trustee

KRISTIAN SHEPHARD

Trustee