How Harmony Youth Project is managed
At Harmony Youth Project, strong charity management and governance guide everything we do. We operate as a transparent and accountable organisation, ensuring we deliver meaningful support to young people, families and the wider community.
Our management structure helps us plan effectively, deliver services safely and remain focused on our charitable objectives across Bolton.
Harmony is a registered charity overseen by a dedicated Board of Trustees. The trustees provide strategic direction, oversee governance and ensure the organisation remains compliant with its legal responsibilities.
In addition, trustees are responsible for ensuring that all decisions are made in the best interests of the children, young people and families we support.
Harmony's Leadership Team
Mr John Hynes (chair)
John has served as Chair of Harmony Youth Project since 2014, following the retirement of Saleem Atcha from the role due to business commitments.
Alongside his role at Harmony, John is a successful local businessman and founder of Copy Print Services, established in 2006. Over the years, he has built a strong reputation within the Bolton business community.
Today, John provides strategic leadership and guidance for the charity. As a result, Harmony continues to grow while remaining focused on supporting young people and families across Bolton.
Mr Brett Pemberton
With more than 25 years of experience supporting disadvantaged and vulnerable young people, Brett brings extensive knowledge to the organisation.
His qualifications include a BSc (Hons) in Psychology, a Diploma and MA in Social Work, and a PGCE in Secondary Science. Furthermore, he is a qualified science teacher with experience across education, social care and youth services.
This diverse background helps strengthen Harmony’s approach to safeguarding, inclusion and wellbeing. Consequently, the support we provide remains informed, safe and effective.
Mr Saleen Atcha
Having served as a trustee since 2001, Saleem brings more than three decades of experience in youth and community work.
Earlier in his career, he led a youth organisation that provided holidays and educational trips for disadvantaged young people across the UK and abroad. Many of these experiences would not otherwise have been available to those involved.
Today, Saleem continues to contribute strong community values, leadership and a lifelong commitment to improving opportunities for young people.
Experience Across Education, Business and Community Services
Miss Rachel Crowe
Rachel is an experienced performer, vocal coach and businesswoman. Her connection with Harmony Youth Project began when she was just eight years old, performing at many of the organisation’s events.
After beginning her performance career at the age of five, Rachel went on to build a successful career in musical theatre. She has toured extensively throughout England and performed internationally on cruise ships.
In addition, Rachel trained in opera from the age of nine and later achieved a Diploma in Musical Theatre and Vocal Coaching.
Her experience within the creative industries provides valuable insight and inspiration for the young people who engage with Harmony’s arts-based activities.
Mr Tony Hayes
Tony is a successful entrepreneur and founder of Diamond Solutions (DSUK), a telecommunications company established in 2005.
Since then, the business has grown into a leading provider of communication solutions for organisations across the UK. Alongside running his company, Tony serves as Regional Director for Business for Breakfast (BforB UK).
His business knowledge, leadership skills and community connections help strengthen Harmony’s partnerships and long-term development.
Mrs Leah Payne
Leah has supported Harmony Youth Project as a trustee since 2001. Throughout her career, she has worked extensively with disadvantaged and vulnerable young people across Bolton.
As an Equal Opportunities Officer with Bolton Council, she promotes inclusion, equality and fair access to services. Previously, she also worked as an Equal Rights Officer supporting minority communities.
Furthermore, Leah contributes through her involvement with Healthwatch Bolton helping local residents influence health and social care services. Her expertise continues to strengthen Harmony’s commitment to equality and community wellbeing.
Day-to-day management and delivery
Alongside our trustees, Harmony’s project team manages the daily operation of the organisation.
Youth Work and Mentoring
Harmony’s staff and volunteers deliver a wide range of activities that support young people’s personal development, wellbeing and aspirations.
This includes:
- Youth sessions and workshops
- Creative arts and media projects
- One-to-one mentoring and guidance
- Holiday activities and community programmes
Partnerships and Community Engagement
Our team works closely with schools, local authorities, housing providers and community organisations.
These partnerships help us identify emerging needs, improve referrals and ensure support reaches those who need it most.
Safeguarding and Operational Oversight
Maintaining high safeguarding standards remains central to everything we do.
All staff and volunteers receive appropriate training, while safeguarding procedures are regularly reviewed to ensure best practice is maintained throughout the organisation.
Safeguarding and policies
We place safeguarding at the heart of our charity management approach. Therefore, we take clear and proactive steps to protect children, young people and vulnerable adults.
Our work is supported by key policies and procedures, including:
- Safeguarding policies
- Risk management processes
- Financial controls
- Health and safety procedures
- Complaints and feedback systems
Importantly, these policies are actively applied throughout our daily operations. As a result, everyone engaging with Harmony can do so within a safe, supportive and well-managed environment.
Transparency and Accountability
Harmony Youth Project is committed to transparency, accountability and good governance.
Trustees and staff work together to review performance, monitor community needs and ensure resources are used effectively. In addition, we regularly review our policies, procedures and safeguarding arrangements to maintain high standards across the organisation.
This commitment helps us remain a trusted charity within the Bolton community while ensuring we continue delivering meaningful support for future generations.
Find out more
If you would like to learn more about how Harmony Youth Project is managed, or if you are interested in working with us, we would be happy to hear from you.