St Giles Trust’s Chief Executive, Rob Owen OBE, is marking his tenth year of heading us up by scaling two of the world’s highest mountains – Mount Everest and Mount Lhotse.

Rob is undertaking the hazardous challenge to raise funds for St Giles Trust’s frontline work and as a tribute to our staff whose work he says: “is often very challenging, sometimes dangerous but always ultimately hugely worthwhile and inspiring. I hope in my own way to recreate just a fraction of this.”

“St Giles Trust is a place I feel privileged and proud to head,” continued Rob. “Today, I’m just as humbled by the work as I was when I joined in 2007. This life-changing work only happens because of the dedication and determination of our staff here. I believe I stand on the shoulders of giants in leading St Giles Trust. This challenge in climbing two of the world’s giant mountains is my way of paying tribute to them whilst raising much-needed funds for our frontline work.”

St Giles Trust is a leading employer of ex-offenders who currently comprise 33% of our staff. We are known for our approach of training people who use our services to become qualified professionals helping others through tour Peer Advisor Programme. St Giles Trust has won 18 national awards since 2007 and has featured consistently in The Sunday Times Best 100 Not-for-Profit Organisations to Work For list since 2008.

Rob will be aiming to summit Everest (8.848m) and then Lhotse (8.516m). He will be departing on 11th April 2017 with Kenton Cool – an extremely experienced mountaineer and alpinist – as his guide during the challenge.

Deputy Chief Executive Malcolm Walker will act as Chief Executive of St Giles Trust during Rob’s absence.

To sponsor Rob and follow his progress, please visit his JustGiving page.