Name:  Sarah Booth-Henry

Role:     Trustee

Please provide a little bit of background information about yourself

Aged 18 months old, in 1934 my dad was left at Blackburn Orphanage, where he grew up. He had very happy memories of his time there and of James Dixon, who established the Orphanage, and Jane Dixon, his wife. The Orphanage has been in my life, all of my life, and it has played a big role. The CANW we see today grew out of the Orphanage.

I have a degree in marketing and, after moving to the US, worked on the Warner Bros. Consumer Products’ theatrical marketing team, an exciting but high-pressure environment collaborating with film sets, licensees and retailers on blockbuster franchises. After returning to the UK in 2006, I shifted direction and became a freelance media analyst. More recently, I created Stories of Survival in the Modern Age, a podcast exploring resilience and the human spirit.

How long have you been a trustee of CANW?

Having spent many more years in the US, when I knew that I was returning to the UK again, I recognised it was my opportunity to get involved with CANW in a meaningful way. I started the application process while I was still living stateside and attended my first in-person meeting on 22 April 2024.

What inspired you to get involved with CANW?

The Orphanage and more recently CANW has always been in my life. I remember attending open days there from a young age, and my father remained deeply connected, even serving as honorary Vice President right up until his passing. The opportunity to get involved and make a difference in a tangible way was too good to pass up.

What skills do you think you bring to this role?

I have certain core values which lend themselves to this role. These include dependability, kindness, compassion and gratitude. I am totally committed to giving my role as trustee my all and I take my responsibilities to the organisation, its people and its mission very seriously.

How do you think CANW makes a difference?

CANW is all about being there for those that feel unseen or unsupported. It’s all about knowing that someone is in your corner. CANW can provide a steady presence and practical help when its needed.

What do you enjoy about your role?

Becoming a Trustee at CANW has pushed me to think more deeply and make harder decisions. Although we don’t always have long to discuss a subject, the conversations are deep, and we have to look at both sides of the story – sometimes making uncomfortable decisions. I have learnt so much more about CANW and my role has pushed me to grow and has helped me to develop my thought processes and rationale. It has also further strengthened my bond with CANW.

What advice would you give to someone considering becoming a CANW Trustee?

Be ready to care deeply. Being a trustee at CANW isn’t just about governance, it’s about standing up for young people who deserve to be heard and supported. You don’t need to know everything on day one, but you do need to show up with compassion, integrity and a willingness to listen, learn and contribute in meaningful ways.

How would you sum CANW up in three words?

Rooted – shaped by its history and legacy; deeply connected to the local community

Compassionate – grounded in care for vulnerable children and young people

Honest – transparent, values-led approach.