Kelly Cassells is an experienced safeguarding leader with extensive expertise in protecting and promoting the welfare of children, young people, vulnerable adults, and families. In her professional capacity, she leads a range of statutory and strategic safeguarding functions, ensuring compliance with key legislation and guidance.

Kelly has a strong track record of shaping safeguarding strategy, developing robust policies and procedures, leading high-performing teams. Her work focuses on ensuring that vulnerable individuals receive consistent, effective support and protection, while fostering strong partnerships with stakeholders across various sectors.

Alongside her professional leadership, Kelly brings a wealth of lived experience and community engagement to her trustee role. She served as a member of the Children’s Commissioner research panel on Prevent and the prevention of radicalisation, contributing valuable insights to national discussions on safeguarding and resilience. She is also a Mental Health Ambassador for Mind, advocating for improved awareness, understanding, and support for mental wellbeing.

Kelly is an active member of a lived experience panel for Samaritans, supporting service improvement and policy development, and is a member of the charity NACOA (National Association for Children of Alcoholics), reflecting her commitment to amplifying the voices of those with lived experience and championing trauma-informed approaches.

As a Trustee and Non-Executive Director for Safeguarding at St Basils, Kelly combines strategic leadership, professional expertise, and personal insight to support the charity’s mission of empowering young people experiencing homelessness to build brighter, safer futures.