Disability Action Yorkshire appoints Robert Kernaghan as new Chair
Harrogate charity Disability Action Yorkshire has announced the appointment of Robert Kernaghan as the new Chair of its Board of Trustees. Robert succeeds Neil Revely, who retired at the charity’s recent Annual General Meeting (AGM) after nine years of leadership.
Robert, who joined the Board of Trustees in early 2024, brings a combination of lived experience of disability and senior corporate expertise to the role. A wheelchair user since contracting polio in childhood, he is a passionate advocate for removing the physical and societal barriers that disabled people face daily.
Robert brings a wealth of professional experience to the board, having held roles at the British Library, the Yorkshire Post, and the Ministry of Defence. He subsequently dedicated thirty years to First Direct Bank, where he concluded his career as the Head of Customer Relations.
Speaking of his appointment, Robert said: "I am honoured to have been chosen by the trustees to Chair a charity that does so much to support and champion disabled people in Yorkshire.
"Disability Action Yorkshire is an organisation that truly puts purpose and passion at its heart. I look forward to working alongside our dedicated team to continue the great work Neil Revely delivered during his tenure, and to ensuring we remain a leading voice for accessibility and inclusion in the region."
Jackie Snape, Chief Executive of Disability Action Yorkshire, added: "We are so pleased that Robert has accepted the role of Chair.
"Since joining us as a trustee, his vast experience in resolving complex problems and his personal commitment to transport accessibility and social equality have been invaluable. He is a fantastic example of the ambitions we support our customers to achieve."