Introducing Tim Morris, CBM UK’s new Chair of Trustees

We are delighted to introduce Tim Morris, our new Chair of Trustees! Tim‘s career as a diplomat included appointments as British Ambassador to Morocco, Mauritania, Democratic Republic of Congo, and South Sudan. Alongside several charitable commitments, he now advises companies and organisations who want to invest in Africa. A passionate advocate for CBM’s work, Tim lives in Sussex and has three grown-up sons.   

What excites you about CBM UK?   

CBM has identified a really important need in the world. As a diplomat I lived in a number of African countries, and was affected deeply by the hope, talent and faith of so many people who were building their lives in difficult circumstances. People with disabilities are too often left behind, often drawn into deeper and deeper poverty because of barriers to accessing healthcare or education. I am very excited by the life-changing work of CBM, and excited to be invited to play my part in it.   

What are your main impressions of CBM so far? 

I am delighted with what I see at CBM. I have heard so many stories of change in the lives of people living with disabilities in the countries where CBM works; stories of real transformation. I am very pleased with CBM’s commitment to work in genuine partnership with local organisations, which is extremely important to deliver lasting change for communities. And I am very impressed with the CBM UK team who are energetic, and have 100% belief in the importance of what they are doing.   

What are your priorities as Chair?   

My priority, alongside my fellow trustees, is to support CBM as well as I can. This of course includes upholding legal obligations, but more broadly I want to support the fantastic team, and especially Kirsty in her role as CEO. I want to represent CBM and speak up for the issues we are highlighting in the world, and I want to celebrate the amazing contribution of CBM’s supporters who make all of CBM’s work possible.   

What would you like to say to our supporters? 

A big thank you! I have huge admiration for CBM’s supporters. They not only understand that people with disabilities living in poverty are the world’s forgotten people, but focus on it, and give it priority in their lives by supporting CBM. They give their time and their money, whether individually, through local groups or churches, and I feel enormously grateful to them for the life-changing support we’re therefore able to offer. Without them, none of CBM’s work would be possible.   

What beliefs and values do you bring to this role?   

My own Christian upbringing and the teaching of Christianity has always helped me understand the importance of practical and respectful help to those more marginalised or simply with lack of opportunity. These values are often shared by other faiths and creeds, which my job gave me many opportunities to appreciate. I am privileged now to be a member of an organisation which is driven by these Christian values to make a difference in the world, preventing blindness, improving health and transforming the lives of people with disabilities. 

Thank you Tim! Find out more about our fantastic Trustees here.

Image: Tim Morris and Kirsty Smith, CBM UK CEO.