ALISON DUNN
Alison Dunn is a dedicated advocate for social justice and equity, wholeheartedly committed to creating a fair society for all. Her many roles share a common theme in breaking down barriers and promoting collaboration.
As CEO of the Society Matters Group, Alison has been instrumental in taking the organisation from the brink of insolvency, to a thriving business, driving financial growth year on year to increase the impact, reach and turnover of the charity. She’s assembled a diverse, talented team of over 230 employees and supports around 70 volunteers each year to support the people and communities of the North East.
Beyond her CEO role, Alison is the Strategic Lead for Poverty, Inequality and Disadvantage at Gateshead Council, supporting senior leaders, officers and Elected Members to consider alternate views and find inclusive ways of working to support our residents. She’s also Chair of the Voluntary Organisations’ Network North East (or VONNE), whose mission is to support the development and sustainability of a strong, effective and well governed Third Sector, promoting engagement, involvement and collaboration, helping thousand charitable bodies achieve their goals and benefit the region.
As if that wasn’t enough, Alison co-authored Gateshead Borough’s Health and Wellbeing strategy “Good jobs, homes, health and friends”. She developed community hubs and led the Warm Spaces initiative, sharing good practice with more than 140 local councils and enabling a national movement to open community spaces for those in need.
Alison has championed Gateshead’s fuel poverty action plan, launched energy roadshows, and secured cross-sector funding to provide ‘winter warmer’ packs for thousands of people. Her efforts also led to the development of Gateshead’s new Independent Volunteering Centre, offering purpose-driven activity, supporting those who may not typically volunteer to take up the broad range of opportunities that exist to build the capacity of local organisations and their beneficiaries.
In recognition of her work and achievements, Alison was named ‘Business Leader of the Year’ at the North East Chamber of Commerce Inspiring Female Awards in 2024, ‘Charity Leader of the Year’ at the North East Charity Awards in 2023 and ‘Levelling Up Leader 2024’ at the annual Northern Power Women Awards. Alison was also named on Business Cloud’s Northern Leaders List, which highlights individuals making a positive difference in the North of England. The Society Matters Group also supports the Community Champion Award at the North East Charity Awards, an award which chimes with both her personal values but also aligns with the vision of the charity.
Alison’s passion, commitment, and leadership have made a significant impact, improving the lives of many and establishing her as a respected figure within the Third Sector locally, regionally and nationally.