A SUPPORT charity that helps young people across West Dunbartonshire has welcomed new board members.

Includem is currently working with more than 180 youths experiencing issues dealing with day-to-day living.

Last month, 16-year-old Wiktoria Bak spoke to the Post about how the “dedicated” support service helped her through difficult a mental health journey.

Wiktoria, from Clydebank, said: “I was insanely lucky to be supported by Includem through both my time of struggle and my process of recovery. They have supported me in times I needed it most and in ways nobody else could have.

“They put structure into my life when everything was crumbling to pieces and every one of my workers has inspired me in their own unique way and helped build me up into the person that I am today.

“There are no words in the world to describe how dedicated they are in helping their young people and I am proud to say that they have helped me change my life around for the better.”

Read more: Wiktoria Bak shares her journey of battling mental health issues

Last week, Includem announced that Joseph Hughes has been appointed the new chair of the board with Kevin O’Hare and Dave Brown joining as trustees.

Joseph said: “I first experienced Includem as a defence solicitor, where I saw first-hand the dedication of Includem workers who steadfastly supported some of my own clients who were very challenging. Their support was amazing. They quite simply never gave up on any client.

“I know how important such focussed support is in the lives of young people and their families. It is an enormous privilege to be appointed as the next chair, especially as we enter our 20th year.”

The new chair will be taking over from Jim Gibson who served over the last decade.

Martin Dorchester, Includem chief executive, added: “I want to thank Jim for his years of dedication and hard work as chair of our board. He has provided a steady hand and helped guide the organisation during some of the most challenging times in the sector. We wish him well as he takes on his new role.

“Joseph brings energy, enthusiasm and a wealth of experience from the world of justice and specifically youth justice that will prove invaluable to Includem as we embark on our next five-year strategy.”