River Network Charity is proud to announce the appointment of former professional footballer, ordained minister, and community leader Phil Starbuck to its Board of Trustees. Bringing a powerful combination of elite sports leadership, dedicated pastoral ministry, and hands-on construction expertise, Starbuck joins the organisation at a pivotal moment as it expands its critical housing, youth, and support services across Derbyshire.
Starbuck’s diverse background uniquely positions him to champion the charity’s holistic mission. A highly respected figure in UK sports, his elite football career spans appearances in every division of the English Football League—including the Premier League—as well as top-flight football in the Dutch Eredivisie and successful tenures as a club manager. Following his sports career, Starbuck channelled his passion into faith and community care, qualifying as an Ordained Elim Minister and serving as a practicing Pastor. He has spent years building impactful outreach projects, including community food provisions and targeted support for those facing addiction and homelessness.
“We are absolutely thrilled to welcome Phil to our leadership team,” said a spokesperson for River Network Charity. “Phil’s incredible journey from the football pitch to pastoral ministry embodies the exact spirit of resilience and transformation that we offer to those we support. His deep expertise in leading community outreach, coupled with his high-level organizational experience, will be invaluable as we scale our alternative education, foodbanks, and supported housing provisions across Matlock, Belper, and the wider region.”
River Network Charity operates through a foundation of Christian concern, delivering an expansive web of vital services designed to lift up vulnerable and marginalised individuals. The charity provides:
- Housing Accommodation & Support:Expanding safe, supported residential spaces for the homeless and vulnerable.
- Children & Youth Services:Delivering alternative education, home schooling hubs, and active youth work.
- Holistic Crisis Intervention:Running local foodbanks, mental health signposting, and practical lifestyle training.
Starbuck’s appointment acts as a major strategic catalyst for the charity’s physical development goals. As an active builder and director of Starbuck Builders Limited, Phil has famously combined the building trade with his ministry work, assisting in the physical construction of church and community outreach spaces. This practical, hands-on infrastructure knowledge will be vital as River Network Charity continues to expand its portfolio of supported housing assets, educational hubs, and community retail spaces across Derbyshire.
“I am incredibly honored to join the board at River Network,” said Phil Starbuck. “Throughout my life, whether in football, the building trade, or ministry, I’ve seen how proper support, discipline, and care can completely rewrite someone’s story. River Network is on the ground doing the real, hard work that changes lives practically and holistically. I look forward to working alongside the board to help develop our infrastructure and expand our physical footprint so we can serve even more families and individuals across our communities.”
About River Network Charity
River Network Charity (Registered Charity No. 1173794) is a Derbyshire-based organisation dedicated to reaching out and helping the community through holistic, practical development. By offering housing accommodation, alternative education, youth ministries, and crisis support, River Network ensures that the needy and marginalised are given the tools to build a secure and independent future.
Media Contact:
- Organisation:River Network Charity
- Location:The Arkwright Society, Cromford Mill, Mill Road, Cromford, Matlock, Derbyshire
- Phone:01629 343108
- Website:org.uk