David Van de Velde (He/Him)

David Van de Velde is a passionate advocate for inclusivity and equality, leveraging his own lived experiences as a gay, mixed heritage, neurodiverse individual to empathise deeply with the LGBT+ community and its intersectionalities. His professional journey showcases a blend of strategic foresight and compassionate leadership skills, most recently during his tenure at NHS England as the Regional Lead for Mental Health, Learning Disabilities and Autism. Here, David championed transparency and collaboration by being appointed to co-chair the EDI Action Group for NHS England's northwest region workforce of about 500 staff.

Consistently championing LGBT+ rights, David’s roles in the charity and public sectors have fortified his skills in strategic planning, governance, and communication strategies. Education has played a pivotal role in David's development, with significant engagements in programmes like Stonewall Diverse Leaders and Black on Board by Olmec.

Beyond his primary roles, David’s leadership spans across complex healthcare environments, from mental health services at HMP Bronzefield to managing significant psychiatric unit budgets. His voluntary endeavours, such as his tenure as Chairman of the Westminster LGBT Forum, underline his societal commitment. Recognitions like the Stonewall Top Employer awards only reiterate his dedication to fostering inclusivity.

In essence, David Van de Velde is not just a multifaceted professional but a leader deeply committed to creating a more inclusive world, underpinned by advocacy, expertise, and genuine empathy.