Following a career in the NHS. In 2006, Yvonne gained a 1st Class BSc Honors Degree in Midwifery Studies, at the University of Huddersfield.
During her community midwifery engagements Yvonne became acutely aware of the vulnerabilities and challenges faced by disadvantaged pregnant, and newly birthed mothers. Yvonne was determined to do something about this.
In March 2007, Yvonne co-founded Palm Cove Society (PCS) with her husband. Its aim was to focus on addressing health, social and community disadvantage and inequalities for women. Whilst at the same time providing safe and supportive accommodation to those in need. As Chief Executive Officer (CEO), Yvonne recognised various vulnerabilities in men and PCS expanded to accommodate vulnerable males.
In 2015, Yvonne’s tenacity led to a Home Office Secondment as ‘Special Advisor’ to the 1st Independent Anti-Slavery Commissioner. Yvonne worked tirelessly throughout the UK to help raise the profile of modern slavery and the newly introduced Modern Slavery Act (2015) within the NHS, Police Service, Local Authorities, Universities and various other national groups.
April 2016, saw Yvonne attending the conference ‘Ending Human Trafficking by 2030’ at the United Nations (UN) in New York. Yvonne had been Invited by the Permanent Mission of the ‘Holy See’, She was also invited and attended follow up meetings at the UN.
In January 2017, she received a High Sheriffs Award for outstanding work during a high-profile prosecution.
July 2018, saw Yvonne awarded the Metropolitan Police Assistant Commissioners Commendation for outstanding commitment to victim care and support.
Yvonne was Commissioned as a Deputy Lieutenant (DL) in August 2023. Her role is to support the Lord Lieutenant of West Yorkshire and represent His Majesty King Charles III on behalf of the Lord Lieutenant at specific events.
Yvonne as CEO of PCS continues to advocate for those facing the challenges of disadvantage and inequality. She also scrutinises policy, procedure and practices to ensure policies are current, relevant and able to empower everyone to be the best they can be.