Our Story
Making a difference to the lives of young people
The Jamie Simpson Trust was founded with the aim of making a positive difference in the lives of young people. We believe that every young person deserves the opportunity to thrive, and through our programs and initiatives we strive to provide them with the necessary support and resources.
Set up by Lorna Simpson in memory of her beloved son, Jamie. Following the devastation of Jamie’s passing, she hopes to honour his memory by supporting young people to make positive life choices.
Meet the team
Our team consists of highly qualified and motivated professionals, who are all experts in their field. With many years of experience working with and supporting young people and adults, they have the expertise to provide comprehensive, first-rate support.
Lorna Simpson
Lorna founded the Jamie Simpson Trust in memory of her son Jamie, whose tragic death in 2008 inspired her lifelong commitment to protecting and empowering young people. With experience in teaching, safeguarding, coaching, and advisory work across Derby schools, she has dedicated her career to early intervention and education. Her contribution to knife crime prevention was recognised with the NBCPA Profile of Courage Award.
Lorna is the architect of Forward Vision club, the Trust’s youth club activities and lifeskills programme designed to help young people build confidence, resilience, and positive futures. Her leadership is rooted in compassion, clarity, and a commitment to giving every young person the chance to thrive.
Outside of her work, Lorna enjoys travelling, gardening, cooking and baking, making jam, sewing, and spending time with her family.
Founder
Laura Smith
I became a trustee because I am deeply committed to giving back to the community and supporting those who need it most. For more than twenty years, I have worked with vulnerable people, helping them access safe accommodation, education, employment and positive social networks. This work is more than a career to me — it is a passion driven by seeing people receive the opportunities they deserve to thrive.
As a mother of three, I strongly believe that every young person should have the chance to grow, belong and feel connected within their community. Jamie had a remarkable passion for life and people, and through the Trust, his energy and legacy continue to inspire and support future generations. The Jamie Simpson Trust creates a welcoming space where young people feel included, valued and empowered.
As a trustee, I will use my knowledge, skills and experience to strengthen the Trust’s programmes and help ensure we make a meaningful difference in the lives of young people. Together, we can raise awareness, challenge social inequalities and help build a brighter, fairer future for vulnerable young people.
Trustee
I began my career as an engineer, completing an apprenticeship at RollsRoyce before moving into youth and community work after volunteering with unemployed young people and those on probation. That experience inspired me to support young people in exploring their aspirations and opportunities.
After training at Manchester Polytechnic and qualifying in Careers Guidance at Trent Polytechnic in 1988, I spent more than 30 years working across education, training and employment.
Throughout my career, I have focused on helping people make informed, confident choices about their futures. I joined the Jamie Simpson Trust to continue supporting young people with the guidance, encouragement and opportunities they need to thrive. I bring strong communication skills, warmth and the ability to build genuine rapport with people from all backgrounds, with a firm belief in equality of opportunity for all.
TrusteeLocksley Ford
Amanda (“Mandy”) spent 30 years serving as a police constable, undertaking a variety of roles including training, facilitation, and colleague support. She was also a founding member of the local Black Police Association and an elected Federation representative.
Since retiring, Mandy has worked with several community-based charities supporting children and young people. She is passionate about helping young people make healthier life choices and find opportunities that support their personal growth and fulfilment.
Inspired by Jamie Simpson’s story and Lorna Simpson’s dedication, Mandy is proud to support young people in Derby through the Forward Vision Project.
TrusteeAmanda Trotman
As a Co-Founder and Trustee of the Jamie Simpson Trust, Vanessa is dedicated to preserving Jamie’s legacy and commitment to supporting others. With a passion for fostering growth and community impact she support the strategic direction and initiatives of the trust.
With extensive experience working with young people since 2007, Vanessa excels in guiding and nurturing creative talent. As a qualified coach and mentor, she currently serves as the Head of Media for the largest college in the North West, overseeing 350+ creative media students.
TrusteeVanessa Simpson
Trustee & TreasurerAmanda Collins
Amanda Collins brings both professional expertise and personal dedication to her role as Trustee and Treasurer. After qualifying in accountancy as a young single parent, she established her own business in 2013. As Treasurer, she ensures the charity’s finances are managed with clarity and transparency through accurate financial reporting.
Amanda met Lorna in 2008, and their shared passion for supporting young people inspired her involvement with the charity. She is proud to help the organisation grow and achieve its vision.
Outside of work, Amanda enjoys gardening, exploring the countryside, and spending time with her French bulldog, Eadie.
I began my career as a psychiatric nurse before moving into education, where I have worked as a secondary school teacher for over 30 years. Supporting young people through their journey from childhood to adulthood has always been a privilege, and I strive to create a safe, supportive environment where students can grow in confidence and thrive. During my 13 years as a Pastoral Head, I worked closely with students to help them reach their full potential and access the support they needed.
Outside of work, I am married with three grown-up children and enjoy spending time with my family, especially on camping holidays. I also enjoy singing in a choir, reading, line dancing, and gardening.
I joined the Jamie Simpson Trust as a volunteer in 2022 and became a Trustee in 2025. I am proud to support a charity dedicated to helping young people feel heard, supported, and encouraged to explore new opportunities.
TrusteeNicola Scope
Join Us in Empowering Young People
Become a Volunteer or Supporter
You can make a difference in the lives of young people by joining
us as a volunteer or a supporter. Whether you choose to invest
your time or contribute financially, your involvement will have a meaningful impact on the youth we serve.