Today (5 September) is International Day of Charity – a day that highlights the importance of giving and the incredible difference that charities make around the world.
As I step into the role of Interim CEO here at St Margaret’s Hospice, I want to thank James for his leadership over the last two years and take a moment to introduce myself and reflect on what charity means to me.
I’ve been working in the charity sector for over 25 years and am incredibly passionate about the role that charities play in our society today. I’ve seen first-hand the impact that charitable work can have on a range of causes, from enabling disabled children to participate in education, to tackling the isolation and loneliness that many older people face. I’ve worked with sight loss charities to deliver skills and training to improve access into employment and helped under-represented communities enjoy and benefit from our heritage and countryside. For the last 6 years, I have been proud to play a role in increasing awareness and funding for hospice care here in Somerset.
It’s easy to forget that St Margaret’s is itself a charity. Everything we do is only possible thanks to the generosity of our community. Every donation, every hour volunteered, every act of kindness really does make a difference.
Being charitable isn’t only about giving money. It’s also about giving time, care and compassion, and about thinking of others. At St Margaret’s, that spirit shines through in everything we do. We are here for patients and families during some of life’s most difficult moments – but we are only able to do this because of the incredible support of people like you.
Change can sometimes feel daunting, but I know that together, as a community, we can continue to build on the wonderful work already being done. I feel incredibly fortunate to be part of St Margaret’s, and I look forward to working with our teams, supporters, and volunteers to ensure that hospice care in Somerset remains as strong and compassionate as ever.
Thank you for standing with us and for being part of our story.
Jo
Interim CEO, St Margaret’s Hospice Care
