Our Team

Staff and Trustees

STAFF TEAM

Projects Lead & Safeguarding Lead | Contact Abi

Hi! I’m Abi, Blank Canvas’ Founder and Projects Lead, 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.

ABI HEDGES

Youth Worker | Contact Steve

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 lead the Central Redcar Youth Club, youth-led social action, Alpha programme and supporting the rest of the Blank Canvas team.

I’m part of Sacred Heart Church in Redcar and love to see churches across the town working together for good!

STEVE CASSY

Youth & Families Advocate | Contact Carol

Hi, I’m Carol, I began volunteering with Blank Canvas in 2023 at Workspace. I have a background in teaching and am part of the team at St Hilda’s Church, Redcar.

Since becoming a Community Minister at St Hilda’s, I now have the opportunity to dedicate my time to supporting young people and their families through our advocacy programme. You can find me at Workspace where I cook a yummy meal each week. If you require support, please click here to get in touch.

CAROL PETIT

TRUSTEES

Chair of Trustees | Contact Mark

Hi, I’m Mark, leading The Grove Community, a church plant on Gurnell Grove estate in West London, where my family and I live. From Bingo Church, our bustling kids club and Sunday services, our community is always buzzing with activity!

I’m honoured to chair the trustee team of Blank Canvas and be part of the team, dedicated to changing young lives in Redcar.

MARK TATE

Treasurer |

Hi, I’m Liz and I am the Treasurer for Blank Canvas. I am a mother of two teenagers and have lived in Redcar for over 20 years.

I enjoy getting creative through pottery, photography and music and play the clarinet, saxophone and keyboard. You’ll often find me walking along Redcar beach with my Labrador Enzo!

LIZ GIBSON

TIM THEOBALDS

Treasurer | Contact Tim

Hi, I’m Tim and I am the soon to be Treasurer at Blank Canvas, taking on the role at an exciting season for the charity in 2024. I am so inspired by what Blank Canvas is doing and look forward to being part of the team.

I grew up on Teesside, but moved down south a long time ago! I enjoy cycling and following the Boro! I have worked as a Finance Director of various businesses and charities.

Operations Trustee | Contact Jonny

Hi, I’m Jonny. I founded Blank Canvas alongside Abi and oversee all of Blank Canvas’ administration and operations.

Redcar is my home town, I have a love / hate relationship with the Boro, but just love for parmo’s. Day to day, I work in the Strategy and Transformation Team at the Diocese of York.

JONNY HEDGES

Safeguarding Trustee | Contact Daniela

Hi, I’m Daniela and I joined the Blank Canvas Trustee team in 2022 after volunteering at Workspace. Being involved for me is about supporting the most vulnerable young people and helping to believe in themselves.

I love living in Marske by the Sea but don’t often find myself by the sea.

DANIELA REITER

Trustee

Hi, I’m Bridget and I joined the Blank Canvas team in 2023.

Day to day I’m the Vicar of Holy Trinity, North Ormesby in Middlesbrough, managing the Trinity Centre and Trinity Youth and Children’s Project. I have a passion for seeing young people have a good start in life, with access to Advocacy and Mentoring a key aspect of this.

BRIDGET WOODHALL