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St. Clare’s Hospice helps hundreds of patients and their families every year in many different ways.
In this edition of the newsletter, we share our latest fundraising events and retail news together with
volunteer vacancies and stories.
INTRODUCING OUR NEW C.E.O!
We would like to give a big welcome to Avril Robinson who takes the
helm of the charity as our new Chief Executive Officer. Avril made the
transition into this role, having honed her skills as Head of Fundraising
and Communications at St Wilfrid’s Hospice based in West Sussex.
Armed with over 6 years of working at management level in a hospice
setting, with particular focus on fundraising, communications and
marketing, Avril is excited to be taking on the new challenges this role
brings. Earlier this year we were given the opportunity to interview
Avril so our supporters could discover all there is to know about our
new CEO.
Welcome to St Clare’s Hospice Avril! Firstly, can you tell our
supporters a little bit about yourself? What do you like to do in
your spare time?
I really enjoy running – I have completed several marathons and have
entered the ballot for this year’s SimplyHealth Great North Run. Since
moving to the region I feel like I have started a new adventure and I
am enjoying discovering new activities to do in South Tyneside as
well as Newcastle and Gateshead. I am a big fan of the arts and live
theatre and I love the social aspect of the city. My faith is also very
important to me so I am looking forward to getting involved with the
lively church network in the local area. Even though I have relocated,
I have a good support network of family and friends who are just a
phone call away.
Can you tell us a unique fact about yourself?
I have cycled the most dangerous road in the world – which happens to be in Bolivia!
Wow. That’s exciting! Now in terms of the post of Chief Executive Officer, can you tell our supporters what
attracted you to this post?
I am very passionate about the Hospice Movement and after discovering more about St Clare’s I realised it has so much
potential to become a leading specialist in end of life care. We already have a gifted and talented team in place, which
delivers excellence in care and provision. By utilising our existing skills we can ensure we meet the changing needs of our
local community.
What influenced you to choose this career?
Working in a hospice setting makes you passionate about providing expert care and being able to provide support to patients
as well as their family and friends. It’s both exciting and empowering to know that through our charity and the support of our
staff, volunteers and supporters we can make a real difference to people’s lives.
What is your vision for St Clare’s?
To meet the growing needs of our patients by looking at current services and horizon scanning to ensure that St
Clare’s moves forward to become a specialist of end of life care – in the community as well as at the St Clare’s
Hospice site in Jarrow.
With Avril’s new appointment, it’s set to be an exciting time for the future of St Clare’s!
What five words best describe you?
Determined, energetic, decisive,
creative, impatient
