First impressions soon convinced Laura Tomlinson that she made the right choice joining East Cheshire Hospice.
The Hospice’s new head of fundraising leads a team without whom the Hospice would not exist.
Such is the department’s importance inspiring the public to give generously to a cause dear to its heart.
Laura is already loving her role after only a few weeks in post.
Laura Tomlinson, the new head of fundraising at East Cheshire Hospice.
She said: “You can feel the passion and energy here and that’s what I want to bring too.
“I like that we’re ambitious in what we do. We’re trying to lead the way and set the benchmark for other hospices.
“My initial impression is how warm and welcoming the Hospice is and I’m bowled over by the depth of support we provide.
“It’s easy to think it’s a hospice with end-of-life care, an inpatient unit, and Hospice @Home.
“But there’s so much more that we do, like all the support we offer to help a person’s wellbeing at the Sunflower Centre and out in the community.”
Laura has spent 11 years in the charity sector. She worked at Marie Curie before taking a gap year travelling with younger sisters Anna and Josie and two friends.
Then came eight years at Maggie’s where she was fundraising manager at its cancer support centre in Oldham.
Laura said: “I knew from Marie Curie that I loved fundraising. It ticks all the boxes for me.
“I enjoy meeting amazing people from all walks of life who give time, energy and love to a charity.
“I love the buzz of organising events that bring people together and championing people in their fundraising.
“I had a taste of everything at Maggie’s, from working with corporate partners, to cheering on people climbing mountains, to supporting fundraisers holding bake sales, and everything in between!
“Being under the same roof as those who receive invaluable care is important to me.”
Fundraising is vital as the Hospice gets only 21 per cent of income from government, meaning an additional £9,362 is needed every day.
Laura said: “I never fail to be amazed by the generosity of people, whether they’re donating, fundraising, or giving us their time. People always find a way to help.”
“Everyone comes together and that’s special. It’s an absolute privilege to be here.