This in from the Hospice, in their own words. Ed
Jo Blackburn, who is stepping into the role for a period of six months whilst a permanent chief executive is sought, has a wealth of experience working with hospices, having held key posts at Sue Ryder and Help the Hospices and more recently as a Programme Manager for End of Life Care In the West Midlands (or NHS Arden Commissioning Support Service).
Hugely impressed
In the first few weeks in her new role, Jo has spent time with trustees, management, staff and volunteers to hear more about their experiences of working with the Hospice. She said:
“I’ve been hugely impressed with the passion and energy that staff and volunteers across the organisation have for the work they do and the vital role they play in supporting people from the Island community.
“In my discussions with them over the last few weeks, I have been struck by the many remarkable things they are involved in and at the same time by the quiet and unassuming approach they take to changing the lives of those they support.”
The Hospice, which employs around 200 staff and is supported by over 500 volunteers, is currently undergoing a period of change on its Halberry Lane site to improve facilities for those visiting the Hospice for palliative and respite care but Jo is clear in her mind what’s important to the Hospice.
Staff and volunteers really make the difference
She says,
“The work that is currently underway will provide even better facilities for those needing our help and support but these are just buildings at the end of the day; our staff and volunteers are the ones that really make the difference – both at EMH and out in the community.
“They are at the heart of everything we do and I am committed to ensuring that we celebrate more of their achievements and support them in their efforts to provide the services that the Island community needs both now and in the future.
“It has been a difficult year for the organisation in some respects. We have spoken to many people involved at all levels and roles in the organisation to help us understand the issues that arose and I am totally committed in my time here to making sure we focus solely on what we, together, do best – working hand in hand with the community to ensure that we offer the very best care and support to the people who rely on us.”
