Charity chief ready to step aside
THE head of a Skelmersdale-based charity which helps people with disabilities is stepping down after 15 years in the role.
Peter Cousins, 70,said that he would step down from his work with Brighter Futures in the coming months as a result of ill health.
He said he was saddened by the decision but believed it was in the best interests of himself and the charity.
The charity’s future remains unclear, though Mr Cousins is adamant that those who benefit from its work will continue to do so.
If a suitable successor cannot be found, the possibility of another charity merging or taking over will be considered.
Brighter Futures operates from a base in Skelmersdale and offers training in basic mechanical and engineering skills to those with physical or learning disabilities.
As well as selling new items, the chsirty’s shop also repairs and services a range of mobility products as part of its service.
In 2012, bosses from the charity were invited to Downing Street to receive a prestigious Big Society Award from then-Prime Minister David Cameron.
Mr Cousins said: “After 15 years as CEO of Brighter Future I will be stepping down over the next few months due to ill health.
“I am saddened to do this but I do not want my health to have a detrimental effect to the long term future of Brighter Future. Now at 70 I believe this is the right time for me to step down. “I am looking for a competent, dynamic person to take over my role and continue to develop Brighter Future; or we can also explore possibilities of either Brighter Future being taken over by or merging with another charity.
“Any constructive ideas are up for consideration to ensure the long term continuity of Brighter Future to help people with disabilities through training, sales, service, repair or recycling of mobility equipment.