The founder of a charity for families is to step down next summer.

Martha Dismont, the executive director of Family Centre, announced yesterday that she would retire in June.

Ms Dismont said that it was time to give the “future generation of leaders” the chance to lead the charity.

She added: “My years at Family Centre will remain very special to me and have provided me with the inspiration and platform to continue to advocate on behalf of our most vulnerable population.

“I will miss the staff and my day-to-day colleagues and friends.”

Justin Freisenbruch, the chairman of the board, said that Ms Dismont’s “unwavering commitment and dedication” had been “second to none”.

He added: “On behalf of the board, I’d like to thank her for all that she has done over the past 30 years to ensure children in Bermuda are in safe, loving homes.

“We wish her all the best next year in her retirement.”

Sandy De Silva, the current director of services at Family Centre, will succeed Ms Dismont.

Dr De Silva said that she was “humbled and honoured” by the appointment.

She added: “Through Ms Dismont’s leadership and inspiration, Family Centre has evolved into a centre of excellence for the social and emotional care of vulnerable children and families in Bermuda.”

Ms Dismont said: “I will still be involved in this work on a part-time basis, remaining closely connected Family Centre as a member of the advisory council, and on the board of its overseas charity, Friends of The Family Centre.”