Exeter-based employment lawyer joins Westbank Community Health and Care’s Board of Trustees
The Devon-wide health and wellbeing charity, Westbank Community Health and Care, is delighted to welcome lawyer Henry Cross as its newest Trustee. Henry is a Senior Associate at Michelmores, specialising in employment law.
A father-of-two from Exeter, Henry already had a broad awareness of the charity when he met Westbank’s Head of Carers Services, Andy Hood, at a networking event a few years ago. When he subsequently learnt that Westbank was looking for a law-oriented Trustee to join its Board, he was quick to express his interest in the role.
Henry says, “I knew I wanted to do something local and for a cause that I felt passionate about. Westbank ticked all my boxes. I was particularly drawn to the charity because of its clear commitment to practical, community-based support and the very visible difference it makes to people across Exeter and Devon.
“Since my first meeting with CEO Sarah Hicks and the team, I have been learning more about Westbank’s work and have been hugely impressed by both the breadth of its services, the professionalism of its team, and the energy and warmth of the organisation. Seeing first-hand the facilities and services Westbank offers, I thought, ‘Wow, this is really impressive.’ It cemented in my mind that it was the right organisation for me. I’m delighted to have my first Trustee position with really nice people doing really great work in the community, and I’m looking forward to supporting Westbank’s continued development.”
Henry adds, “I value integrity, kindness and fairness and being down to earth and honest in how I work with people. I also place a lot of importance on taking time to understand what matters to others, communicating clearly, and working together to find sensible solutions rather than creating unnecessary complexity. These are beliefs and qualities that I know Westbank shares.”
In addition to taking up his role as a Trustee, Henry recently assisted Westbank’s HR team by delivering a voluntary line management training session over a couple of weeks. He says,” It’s been great to bring some of my expertise in employment law into play to deliver some specific staff training that they really appreciated. My role as a Trustee is broader than that, contributing to the strategic direction of the charity.”
Outside of work, Henry enjoys spending time with his wife and two young sons, especially outdoors exploring the Devon countryside. He is interested in the protection and maintenance of the natural environment and anything to do with history. Henry also enjoys playing the guitar and writing his own music.
Westbank Community Health and Care is currently recruiting for a Finance Trustee to join its dedicated Board of Trustees. To find out more or apply, visit: westbank.org.uk or call 01392 824752.
