In a completing of the circle, a former adoptee of Jewish family and children’s charity Norwood will become its new chair of trustees.

Miles Webber will take on the role later this year, succeeding outgoing chair Neville Kahn.

Webber said his passion for leading Norwood was drawn from his own life-changing experience, having been adopted as a baby through Norwood’s historic adoption services.

“Having been enabled by Norwood from the very beginning of my life, I am thrilled to be officially joining the Norwood family, and in doing so, to have the opportunity to give back to an organisation that means so much to me, in common with so many other members of our community.”

Webber comes with extensive leadership experience, having begun his career as executive director of Labour Friends of Israel, later becoming the chair of Lead, a division of the JLC, and a trustee of the Institute of Jewish Policy Research.

Neville Kahn

Neville Khan (Photo: Norwood)

Webber said it was “with huge pride that I step into the role of chair of such a vital communal organisation as Norwood”.

The appointment was welcomed by Norwood’s chief executive, Naomi Dickson, who said: “Miles’ reputation precedes him as a committed leader and tireless advocate for the causes he supports, and I look forward to working closely with him as together we lead Norwood through the next chapter in its history, serving the community.”

Dickson also expressed her gratitude for Neville Kahn, who became chair in 2018, thanking him for his “steadfast passion, energy and commitment to empowering Norwood to deliver the best possible care to the people who depend on us”.

Lord Jon Mendelsohn and Lady Nicola Mendelsohn CBE, Norwood joint presidents, said in a statement: “[Miles’] great leadership qualities and personal connection to our work will make a huge impact on all we do.”

Stepping down from his role as chair, Neville Kahn said: “It has been a great honour and responsibility to serve Norwood[… ]I will continue to do so as it transitions to Miles’ outstanding leadership.”

Norwood, the UK’s oldest Jewish charity supporting vulnerable children and their families, delivers hundreds of services for clients in London and the southeast.

Over 1200 staff are supported by approximately 500 volunteers. Its patrons include the late Queen Elizabeth II.