Cath Taylor

Before joining OnSide, Cath worked as Safeguarding Officer for a faith based charity for 5 years. Before that she had over 20 years experience in lead safeguarding and social work roles across local authorities and the NHS.

Cath’s role is to further develop the safeguarding agenda across the Network by working collaboratively with Chief Executives, Designated Safeguarding Leads and Deputies to support them to deliver an excellent standard of safeguarding consistently across all the Youth Zones and the OnSide Network. 

What inspired you to join OnSide? 

I heard about OnSide via LinkedIn at a time when I was considering a job change. The more I found out about OnSide the more enthusiastic I was about having the opportunity to work at OnSide and be part of the movement to support young people in safe, vibrant spaces which young people need now more than ever before.  

The values of OnSide as an organisation align with my own professional and personal values and that is really important to me. The role of Safeguarding Manager fits well with my professional experience in the field of Social Work and Safeguarding in previous organisations. 

What’s been a memorable moment you’ve had working with the team?  

In 2023 I joined the Values Committee, to participate in reviewing nominations for colleagues who have displayed Onside values within their work and deciding which colleagues receive the ‘Values Awards’. It is great to see all of the great work colleagues are undertaking to support young people. 

What was the first Youth Zone you visited and what did you think?  

The first Youth Zone I visited was HideOut in Manchester. I remember being taken aback by the atmosphere and the ‘positive vibe’ throughout the building, as well as the huge number of happy young faces. The range of activities on offer for young people was amazing. 

What would be your go-to Youth Zone room and why?

The Health & Wellbeing Room. Such an important space to encourage discussions about personal circumstances and worries with trusted youth workers, in a relaxed and welcoming environment. 

Tell us a fun fact about yourself

I am a lifelong Manchester City fan. During my years as a season ticket holder, it has certainly encompassed all levels of ‘fun’ during both the recent successful years and the many years of absolutely zero success haha.