Kenward Trust Appoints New Trustee with Lived Experience

Toby Winson

Kenward Trust is delighted to welcome Toby Winson as the newest member of our Board of Trustees. 

Toby’s journey is nothing short of remarkable. At just 25 years old, he faced alcoholic liver disease and believed he had lost all hope for the future. After two life-changing stays at Kenward Trust, he embraced recovery and has now been alcohol-free for nine years. 

Since then, Toby has gone on to build a successful career as News Editor at ITV News Meridian, while also becoming a respected recovery blogger, public speaker, and award-winning journalist. His accolades include Breaking into News 2019 and ITV News’ Newcomer of the Year 2022. He has also presented documentaries for ITV’s current affairs programme Tonight, tackling issues such as the rise in harmful drinking during the Covid pandemic. 

Toby has also volunteered to play a vital role in delivering our Think Differently programme in schools alongside Andy Watson and Kim Webster, sharing his lived experience to encourage young people to pause, reflect, and make safer choices. 

Reflecting on his journey, Toby shared: 
"Kenward Trust saved my life. I battled alcoholism from a very young age and developed alcoholic liver disease by 25. I was lucky enough to get funding to go to Kenward twice. There, I learnt many of the skills I use today to stay sober. I've been alcohol free for nine years and have a wonderful life – a life that would have ended in my twenties if it wasn’t for my time at Kenward. The opportunity to try and give back to those who helped save my life was a no brainer for me." 

Kenward Trust, CEO, Penny Williams added: 
"We are thrilled to welcome Toby to the team. His lived experience, combined with his professional achievements, makes him a powerful advocate for recovery and a role model for the young people we support. We know his story will resonate deeply and inspire positive change."