Councillor Linda Johnson has been elected as the new Chairman at May’s Annual General Meeting. She takes over from Councillor Liam Dealtry.
Councillor Johnson has served as a Liberal Democrat councillor representing St Mary’s Ward in Beverley for the last seven years, alongside being a member of Beverley Town Council. She served as Town Mayor of Beverley (Chair of the Town Council) for two years, between 2021 and 2023.
During her year as Chairman, she has chosen to support two charities; East Riding Domestic Abuse Trust (ERDAT) which works with victims of domestic abuse, both men, women and children, within the East Riding, who need urgent monetary assistance after fleeing to a place of safety. Also, White Ribbon - the charity which works towards ending men's violence against women and girls by challenging its root causes of harmful misogynistic attitudes and behaviours.
Councillor Linda Johnson said: “I have chosen these charities because it's only by bringing conversations about domestic abuse and violence against women and girls into the open that we can hope to challenge and change toxic behaviour.
“White Ribbon is very dear to my heart. The council is an accredited organisation which encourages all staff and members to take the White Ribbon promise and active bystander training, and many East Riding schools and organisations are signed up supporters. However, I am very aware that online misogyny, sexism, bullying and threats against young women is causing real harm. It would be good to think that money raised during my year in office, could be used to run relationship violence prevention sessions and social skills training in East Riding settings, involving young people of both sexes.”
Councillor Barbara Jeffreys was elected as Vice Chairman.
Outgoing Chairman, Councillor Liam Dealty, was thanked for his year in office, during which he raised over £4000 for his charities; SSAFA East Yorkshire (Soldiers’, Sailors’ and Airmen’s Families Association) and M.A.S.H. (Military Assistance Social Hub), and attended over 300 engagements.
The Chairman attends a variety of events and functions within the East Riding organised by businesses, churches, local organisations, parish and town councils, and further afield if there is an East Riding connection. The Chairman also attends events which are organised by council departments, such as opening of community homes, schools, youth clubs and exhibitions.
