We are bidding a fond farewell to our Joint CEO, Gail Linehan! Her legacy is one of integrity, passion and heart – shared values of St Raphael’s that have helped shape our Hospice today.

Gail first joined the Hospice as a staff nurse on our Inpatient Unit, almost 25 years ago! During this time, she has held the roles of Clinical Nurse Specialist, Team Manager, Director of Care Services and Strategy Development before embarking on the role as Joint CEO alongside Nick Stevens.

On 22 November, Gail joined our Inpatient Unit team for her last shift and shared a heartfelt message with us:

“It hardly seems possible that nearly 25 years have passed since I joined St Raphael’s as a nurse. Much has changed over that time, however the fundamental role and values of the Hospice in providing specialist care and support to our community have remained constant throughout. This is no small part due to the dedicated and committed staff who provide and support the services we deliver. It has been a great privilege to work for this special organisation alongside so many wonderful people for all these years.

The end of our lives is just as precious as the beginning. This organisation has led by example in valuing every precious moment for our patients and their families. I am very proud of all that has been achieved at St Raphael’s, which has only been possible with the expert guidance of the Board of Trustees, the commitment and dedication of our staff, volunteers and the generosity of those who donate to support our services.

I am retiring from St Raphael’s with the confidence that the Hospice is in the very capable hands of Nick Stevens who will serve as sole CEO. The Hospice provides palliative and end of life care to patients and supports those closest to them, free at the point of need. As a charity, we need to raise a staggering £4.5 million toward our running costs each year, to continue supporting the 1 in 4 people of Merton and Sutton who need us. Whilst acknowledging the current challenges that our community faces, I appeal to people to support and donate to St Raphael’s Hospice to ensure that the Hospice will continue to be there for those who need our care into the future.”