Phil East

Phil joined Caritas Care in 2026, bringing more than sixteen years’ experience from Salford Foundation, where he served as CEO for seven years.

He began his career as a Youth and Community Worker and has remained committed to tackling disadvantage and helping people overcome barriers to reach their potential. Alongside his professional role, Phil is actively involved in his local community and is a Trustee of The Lowry in Salford Quays.

Chris Briggs

Chris joined Caritas Care in 1998 after a career in accountancy during which she had the pleasure of auditing the charity’s accounts for 10 years! Her role grew from Principal Officer Finance to Chief Finance & Operating Officer and now is the Charity’s Director of Finance and HR. She currently oversees the part of the charity’s central support services which includes Finance, HR, Administration, ICT, and Data Analysis.

James Haigh

James joined the team in January 2025 and brings with him experience in social care working for Lancashire County Council as both a support worker and manager in learning disability services. He has experience in housing, working at a number of Housing Associations in various roles including employment support, money advice, communities and social value. He also has experience working in charities in senior roles and delivering homelessness services.

At Caritas Care James is responsible for Supported Living Services, FX & VIP Day Services, Vincent House Homeless Hostel, Plungington Community Centre and all Caritas Care property. He is the designated Adults Safeguarding lead, head of health and safety and leads on GDPR as the charities’ Caldicott Guardian.

Kate Knowles

Kate joined the team in 2003 as a Social Worker in the Fostering Service. Kate came with experience of supporting adults in Learning Disability Services and a homeless hostel for women with children.  Kate spent 11 years in the  Fostering Service, supporting foster carers and young people.  In 2014 Kate was involved in the setting up of the Concurrent Planning Service, assessing and approving adopters who could consider Early Permanence as a route to Adoption. Kate is very passionate about Early Permanence and the benefits it can have, particularly for children. Kate was also involved with consultancy work with the North East Regional Adoption Agencies to develop their Early Permanence offer.

Kate was appointed Head of Children’s Services in 2024 and is responsible for the Adoption, Fostering and Therapeutic Intervention Services. She is the designated Children’s Safeguarding Lead and Panel Advisor for the Adoption and Fostering panel at Caritas Care.