Meet Our Trustees

Patrick Hurley – Chair

As well as being the Vice Chair of Paper Cup Project, Patrick is the Chief Executive Officer of Inclusive Economy Liverpool, which works to promote grassroots-led economic development in the Liverpool City Region. He is an elected member of Liverpool City Council, and chairs the city’s Enterprise, Employment and Skills Committee. Patrick is also a governor of Sudley Infant School and City of Liverpool College, and is co-founder of Ethos Magazine and Liverpool Soup. 

Stephanie Smith – Secretary

Steph is the Secretary for Paper Cup Project and is also the executive assistant for a successful  property company based in Liverpool. She was recently nominated as a finalist in the Charity PA Awards, for her fundraising efforts, after raising an impressive £40,000 for charities across Liverpool. In her spare time she enjoys going to the gym and following Everton FC.   

Adam Boaks

Adam has worked as a merchandiser for the past  seven years since graduating from the University of Manchester studying Business Economics. Adam has been a volunteer with Paper Cup Project for more than three years. In his free time he enjoys following his favourite football team , Liverpool FC.  

Paul Polhill

Paul has been a volunteer with the Paper Cup Project outreach team for around two years. His lived experience is a valuable asset to the board, as he has previously dealt with compulsive gambling, which led to financial insecurities and a loss of the family home. Paul is a Director of Liverpool construction company, Blue Rose Construction Ltd. 

Matt Ide – Vice Chair

Matt is the Managing Director of Giving Insight, a research-led fundraising consultancy working with not-for-profits globally.  A member of the Chartered Institute of Fundraising, he has written numerous pieces on global philanthropy, including contributing to the award-winning book ‘Global Fundraising: How the World is Changing the Rules of Philanthropy’. Outside of work, he can be found walking, running or cycling outdoors and supporting his beloved Liverpool FC.

Liam Gray – Treasurer

Liam is a chartered accountant from Liverpool. He trained with KPMG and has since moved into industry and is currently working at a listed R&D company based in Manchester. Liam is a fan of most sports, but most of all enjoys watching and playing football, and is another LFC fan! He also enjoys live music and attends concerts and festivals when he has some free time.

Julie Duffy

Julie currently works as an Accommodation Manager for an Emergency Temporary Accommodation service for those experiencing homelessness. As someone with almost ten years lived experience of homelessness, addiction and unsettled living, Julie is extremely passionate about supporting those in similar situations and has worked within mental health and wellbeing over the last 15 years. In her spare time she enjoys long walks with her 2 Bichon Frises, sleeping, and tinkering with the ukulele!