Shirley Johnson

Shirley is a proud Yorkshirewoman, who lived in Leeds all her life before moving to Northumberland, a decision she describes as the best she has ever made. Her connection to the region began early in her career when she studied at Durham University and fell in love with the North-East. Returning after retirement had always been a long-term ambition.

Her working life has been devoted to public organisations. She began in press and public affairs with two metropolitan councils before moving into communications roles with a branch of the Science Museum and a university in West Yorkshire. Later, she served as a policy advisor for both children’s and adult social services at Leeds City Council, a role that strengthened her belief in the importance of strong, supportive public services.

After moving to a small village just outside Ashington, Shirley became involved in CELL, a National Lottery-funded regeneration project serving the communities of Cresswell, Ellington, Linton and Lynemouth. This involvement introduced her to YMCA Northumberland and set her on a path that has become deeply meaningful.

Shirley currently serves as Chair of YMCA Northumberland, supporting the young people who rely on its services, the dedicated team who deliver them, and the Board that guides the organisation’s direction. She draws on the experience gained over her forty-year career, particularly in leading organisations through challenging periods and in identifying and communicating positive messages that strengthen public confidence. One of her proudest accomplishments is helping to build a Board of Trustees whose knowledge, talent, and energy have positioned YMCA Northumberland for an ambitious and exciting future.

Outside of her work with the YMCA, she devotes much of her time to the study of the Anglo-Saxon period. She is closely involved with the Bede Museum in Jarrow, which explores the life of the seventh-century monk and the golden age of Northumbria, a period when art, architecture, science, and Christianity flourished.

She is known for her approachable nature, and her favourite aspect of her involvement with YMCA Northumberland is, without question, the young people who inspire her and the staff whose dedication continually impresses her. Throughout her life, she has been fortunate to have strong female role models, from head teachers in her school years to Directors of Children’s and Adults’ Social Care in her later career, all of whom have shaped her approach to leadership.

Her work philosophy is simple: she has always enjoyed her job, believing that if you don’t enjoy what you do, you are unlikely to do it well. She believes finding something that truly satisfies you is the key to excelling. Her approach to challenges is grounded in the belief that “It’s nothing we can’t handle,” a lifelong catchphrase that continues to guide her.

In her role, she aims to provide a listening ear, offering guidance and encouragement wherever possible. Beyond the organisation, she takes pride in serving as an ambassador, representing the vital work YMCA Northumberland does for children and young people across the region.

YMCA Northumberland