I began my career in 1995, qualifying as a Registered General Nurse after training at St Bartholomew’s Hospital and City University London, with a degree in Nursing and Human Sciences. I was drawn early on to cancer and palliative care, and I’ve spent most of my working life in that field across the NHS, community settings, and the charitable sector.
In 2001, I completed a Master’s in Palliative Care at King’s College London, which helped deepen my understanding of holistic, person-centred care, something I’ve always believed in passionately. I’ve worked in a range of clinical roles, from busy hospital and hospice wards to hospital and community teams as a clinical nurse specialist, before stepping into leadership (Some might say I just fancied fewer night shifts… and they might be right!).
Since then, I’ve held senior positions, including Director of Clinical Services at Woking and Sam Beare Hospices, Head of Nursing at Guy’s and St Thomas’ NHS Trust, and, most recently, Chief Executive at The Whiteley Homes Trust, a unique almshouse retirement community in Surrey.
Throughout it all, I’ve remained committed to the belief that people deserve care that respects who they are, not just their needs, but their lives, stories, and choices. As Dame Cicely Saunders once said: “You matter because you are you. You matter to the last moment of your life.” That quote has always stayed with me. It’s not just about care – it’s about dignity, purpose, and connection.
I’m proud to have joined Friends of the Elderly at such a pivotal time. Together, we’re striving to provide excellent care and support for older people and their families across residential and community services. Just as importantly, we want to be a key part of the local communities we serve, not just in care homes, but in people’s lives.
If I could give my younger self some advice, I’d say: be kinder to yourself. Stop waiting to be perfect- perfection is overrated (and often exhausting). It’s the stumbles and surprises that shape you, and it’s far better to try and learn than to stand still because you’re scared to fall. Failure isn’t the enemy; not trying is. (Oh, and always bring snacks to a long meeting!).
Outside of work, I have an enthusiastic habit of cold-water swimming, some might even call it an addiction. I’ll jump into rivers, lakes or the sea at any time of year, and I’m happiest when I’m outdoors and slightly freezing. When I’m 80, I hope I’m still being spotted in a swimming cap somewhere, and who knows, I might even finally get around to swimming the Channel. Or at least talking about it over a well-earned hot chocolate.