On the move in June

Darren Holt and Melanie Ogden

Our monthly round-up of movers and leavers.

 St Ann’s Hospice appoints new trustees

St Ann’s Hospice in Greater Manchester has announced two new trustees who have joined its board of directors to help steer the organisation towards its 50^th anniversary.

The charity has appointed chartered accountant Darren Holt as its treasurer, and Melanie Ogden, a senior clinical leader with experience at strategic, primary and secondary care levels within the NHS as a trustee.

Darren Holt, said:  “St Ann’s does wonderful work supporting patients and their families at what could be the worst of times, in such a way that ensures it is the best it can be. To be given the opportunity to help to sustain and hopefully extend that work is, in itself, an honour and I expect it will also prove to be a pleasure.”

Mel Ogden, said:  “I’m delighted to be joining the St Ann’s team who have a national reputation for caring.

“When I worked in the NHS we often talked about how we often met people at their most vulnerable and life changing point in their lives, and we tried to embody the values as set out in the NHS constitution – ‘compassion is central to the care we provide and respond with humanity and kindness to each person’s pain, distress, anxiety or need.

“We search for the things we can do, however small, to give comfort and relieve suffering. We find time for patients, their families and carers, as well as those we work alongside’.  I see that being put into everyday practice by the staff and volunteers at St Ann’s, and it’s an honour to be asked to join the board of trustees.”

CHAS Chief Executive to retire next year

Children’s Hospices Across Scotland – better known as CHAS – has announced that its Chief Executive Maria McGill intends to retire in March 2020.

Maria McGill joined CHAS in 2010 and has been instrumental in guiding the organisation through significant change which has seen the charity expand to meet an increasing demand for its services. Over the last five years, CHAS has seen a significant increase in the referral rate of the children and families it supports.

During Maria’s tenure, CHAS has continued to grow its reputation both nationally and internationally, establishing the charity as the national provider and leading voice in paediatric palliative care for babies, children, young people and their families with life-shortening conditions across Scotland.

In 2017, in response to a groundbreaking study ‘Children in Scotland Requiring Palliative Care: identifying numbers and needs’ funded by the Scottish Government, the charity, under Maria’s leadership, launched its ambitious strategy ‘Reaching Every Family in Scotland’ and fundraising campaign ‘Keep the Joy Alive’ to ensure CHAS can be there for each and every child and family that needs its support.

Most recently, CHAS has joined forces with the Royal Hospital for Children in Glasgow in a pioneering and innovative partnership that will see the first ever paediatric palliative care team established within a hospital environment in Scotland.

Maria McGill commented: “It has been an incredible experience serving CHAS. I have had the privilege to lead a wonderful team of staff and volunteers who are all dedicated to caring for children and families across Scotland. CHAS is always about the art of the possible, of working with children and families in what are often the most difficult of times, creating precious memories, the biggest of smiles and moments of joy. I am deeply grateful for having had the opportunity to play a part in the story of CHAS.”

St Vincent’s Hospice seeks Ambassadors St. Vincent’s Hospice in Renfrewshire has unveiled a new way for people to get involved and support their charity, with the introduction of their official Ambassador Programme. As a specialist provider of palliative and hospice care for people and families affected by life-limiting conditions, St. Vincent’s has recruited their first batch of compassionate and committed supporters to take up the role of Ambassador. These individuals will play a vital role in helping to raise awareness and support for the charity continue to develop their services. The Ambassadors will act as nominated representatives of St. Vincent’s in the community, with no minimum time commitment each week and no expectation to be involved in the day-to- day running of the hospice. Volunteer Services Manager Elaine Grealey said: “This is the perfect opportunity for someone who is looking to give something back, and is looking for a place to start. So whether you are a long – time supporter or just think you can make a difference, please get in touch.” Some ways Ambassadors can help out the hospice include: Attending or speaking at public events on behalf of the hospice Running awareness, networking or fundraising events Agreeing to share personal experiences via articles, videos etc. Undertaking your own personal challenge or taking part in an event on behalf of the hospice While it may seem daunting to learn about everything the hospice does, St Vincent’s will provide support and information materials. Additionally Ambassadors can select one service which is special to them and champion it. For more information visit St Vincent’s Ambassador Programme Phyllis Tuckwell hosts Recruitment Day for student counsellors Phyllis Tuckwell Hospice Care will be holding a Recruitment Day on Saturday November 9 for anyone who is interested in a securing a two-year student counselling placement with them. The Recruitment Day will start with a meet and greet session, followed by an overview of Phyllis Tuckwell and the services it offers to its patients and their families, and a Q&A session. Students will then be invited to join in with some group work and the day will end with a short, informal interview. There will be an opportunity to meet one of Phyllis Tuckwell’s former students, who is now one of their qualified counselling volunteers. Those who wish to can also have a tour of the hospice. Following the day Phyllis Tuckwell hopes to be able to offer placements to the successful students. “We are proud to offer a very supportive learning environment within our team of experienced counsellors and we take our educative role very seriously,” says Claire Tune, Lead Counsellor at Phyllis Tuckwell Hospice Care. “We offer our students ongoing support throughout their two-year training, regular supervision with a qualified supervisor (in line with BACP requirements), provide written feedback and reports as required, and offer all students the opportunity to attend any CPD training we may hold.” Those who are offered a placement can initially expect to work with bereaved adults whose loved one was cared for at the hospice. Their work and progress will be closely monitored, and as they develop as a counsellor they will progress to working with carers and possibly also patients. Phyllis Tuckwell abides by and works within the BACP ethical framework. If you are interested in attending the Recruitment Day, please contact Claire Tune before 4pm on Friday 18th October.