Melinda Connelly

Mel is now an individual member of WMFN, having over 20 years’ experience with several national funders, including NLCF and more recently BBC Children in Need.  

Mel has been a Trustee of WMFN for 20 years.  She has overseen distribution of funding across the UK, and has led on the development of local, national and UK-wide funding strategies.  She has extensive experience in designing and leading responsive, thematic, and collaborative funding programmes that are accessible and shaped by the needs of diverse communities. In addition, she has developed risk management strategies for grant-making, promoting more inclusive and risk-aware approaches to funding for organisations.  

While holding a National role, Mel maintained a strong local focus on the West Midlands, reflecting her deep commitment to the region. She is dedicated to strengthening the voluntary sector and championing the vital work it does to support the area’s diverse communities.

In addition to her funding background, Mel is also a Trustee of Brap, a charity that is leading the way on equality and the rights of all individuals and communities.  She also held the role of Vice Chair of the Board of Governors for over ten years for two ‘outstandiing’ academies in Sandwell, before stepping down in 2022.

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