The Dorset Voluntary and Community Sector Assembly (VCSA) is built on the commitment, insight and generosity of the people who give their time to guide it. This spring, we offer our heartfelt thanks to two valued Board members — Peter Green and Martin Yelling — who have stepped down after dedicated service.
Their contributions have shaped the Assembly’s development, strengthened its governance and helped ensure the voluntary and community sector has a strong, credible and collaborative voice across Dorset.
Peter Green: A Steady Hand, a Thoughtful Voice, and a Deep Commitment to Community
Peter has been part of the Dorset VCSA Board since its inception, bringing decades of experience in equality, community development and partnership working. His approach has always been grounded in fairness, clarity and a deep respect for the people and organisations the Assembly exists to serve.
Throughout his time on the Board, Peter became known for his attention to detail, his ability to ask the questions that mattered, and his commitment to ensuring decisions were rooted in purpose and impact. He helped shape the Assembly’s early governance, supported the development of its strategic direction, and consistently championed the importance of inclusive, community led approaches.
Peter has stepped down to focus on personal health and family commitments. He leaves with the Board’s full gratitude and admiration — and with the reassurance that his insight and experience will continue to influence the Assembly’s work for years to come.
“Peter has been instrumental in helping the Assembly grow into a trusted and respected voice for the sector. His integrity, wisdom and commitment to community values have shaped our culture and our direction.” Ken Heap, Chair, Dorset VCSA
Martin Yelling: Championing Community Voice and Sector Ambition
Martin joined the Dorset VCSA Board with a strong background in community engagement, health and wellbeing, and partnership working. As CEO of the children’s mental health charity stormbreak (www.stormbreak.org.uk), he brought a deep understanding of the challenges facing voluntary organisations — from funding pressures to increasing demand — and a clear vision for how the sector could work together to create meaningful change.
His contribution to the Board has been marked by strategic thinking, constructive challenge and a commitment to strengthening the sector’s role within wider systems. Martin consistently championed collaboration, transparency and shared purpose, helping the Assembly navigate a period of significant growth and increasing responsibility.
Martin stepped down earlier this year, leaving a legacy of ambition, partnership and a stronger, more confident sector voice.
“Martin brought energy, clarity and a deep understanding of the pressures facing voluntary organisations. His leadership and insight have helped shape our direction at a crucial time.” Ken Heap, Chair, Dorset VCSA.
A Shared Legacy of Strengthening the Sector
Together, Peter and Martin have helped guide the Assembly through a period of transformation — from its early formation to its growing role in system wide partnership working. Their leadership has helped ensure the Assembly remains rooted in its purpose: representing, supporting and championing Dorset’s voluntary and community sector.
While we are sad to see Peter and Martin step down, we are deeply grateful for everything they have contributed. Their insight, integrity and commitment have shaped the Assembly’s journey and strengthened the foundations on which we continue to build.
We wish them both the very best in their next chapters and we know their influence will continue to be felt across the sector they have served with such dedication.