Meet the team

Jane joined LOROS in August 2024 as the Director of Care Services. Jane has been qualified as a Registered Nurse for over 40 years and has successfully held several senior leadership roles within the NHS and the charity sector, with the most recent being the Macmillan Lead Cancer Nurse at Leicester’s Hospitals. Jane has also completed her MSc in Specialist Nursing Practice (Cancer) at De Montfort University. 

Jane’s career has covered a variety of specialist areas including medicine, surgery, oncology, haematology, cancer care and palliative and end of life care services. Jane has led on the delivery of Personalised Care in cancer across Leicester Leicestershire and Rutland and is passionate about delivering holistic care to our patients and their families. 

Jane is responsible for leading our care services, delivering evidence-based continuous improvement, working with partners nationally and locally to strengthen the provision of palliative and end of life care and ensuring high standards of care that meet the requirements for Care Quality Commission. 

Outside of work Jane enjoys spending time with her family and friends, exploring new cities and discovering quaint little coffee shops.  

I have gained a wealth of Palliative and end-of-life care experience within clinical services, education, and research.

Beginning my career as a qualified Physiotherapist, graduated from the University of Birmingham, and launched my hospice career in Palliative & End of Life Care rehabilitation. Going on to manage a day hospice service and develop a Breathlessness Clinic.  Then later developed a curiosity for education and research, and secured the post of Head of Clinical Education & Research at Birmingham Hospice.

I re-joined the NHS to pursue my keen professional interest in workforce development within health and social care and developed and led a Care Home Academy. At the same time as developing a research project seeking to explore the effectiveness of Palliative & end-of-life education in Care homes.

Most recently I was appointed as Head of Palliative Care for Birmingham Community Healthcare NHS Foundation Trust.

I feel honoured to be joining Loros as the Director of the Centre for Excellence.  I am passionate about ensuring the LOROS Centre for Excellence continues to develop meaningful partnerships and share our ambitions to continually drive up and improve palliative and end-of-life care, regionally, nationally and globally.

Jackie joined LOROS in March 2021 as Associate Director of Human Resources and was subsequently promoted to Director of People in January 2022. She joined LOROS as part of her successful 17 year career in Human Resources, during which she has worked largely within the commercial sector in the UK, Republic of Ireland and Australia. Her qualifications include BA (Hons) Human Resources Management, PG Cert Employment Law, PG Dip Human Resources Management and a Masters in Human Resources Management. She holds Chartered Member status of both the UK’s CIPD and its Australian equivalent, the AHRI.

The overriding purpose of Jackie’s role as Director of People is to create a culture which consistently delivers the highest possible level of patient care. This is done by ensuring the processes, practices and procedures by which our paid staff and volunteers are recruited and deployed to deliver the LOROS Strategy are fit for purpose, aspirational and deliver on quality. This is a process of continuous improvement, achieved through the commitment and collaboration of the Volunteer Coordination team, HR team and Staff Network Coordinator.

Outside of work Jackie enjoys making greetings cards, golf, cycling and listening to podcasts on true crime, management and The Archers.

Caroline joined LOROS in June 2019 having worked in the charitable sector for over 14 years. Prior to this she spent the first 7 years of her career in the financial sector. She is an experienced Director of Fundraising and Communications, however her specialism is in Philanthropy, having implemented and led the Major Gift and Capital Appeal programmes at Barnardo’s. She has significant experience across a range of fundraising disciplines as well as organisational stakeholder management.

Caroline is responsible for all areas of income generation at LOROS, from the more traditional areas, such as Fundraising, Lotteries and Enterprise- to developing new and innovative income streams for LOROS with the aim of raising more long term sustainable funds to support patients and their families. Underpinning all of income generation is the data team who support income generation in their communication with our supporters.

Caroline is passionate about building meaningful relationships and partnerships with supporters, so that all supporters feel genuinely valued and truly know the difference that their support makes at LOROS.

Dr Feathers is the medical lead for the Hospice and oversees medical aspects of care for patients on the ward, in day therapy, out patients and at home, in conjunction with their general practitioners and the community teams.

He is responsible for co-ordinating the other doctors who work at the Hospice including those in training. He chairs the Medicines Management Group and contributes to the Clinical Governance Committee as part of maintaining high quality governance for the Hospice.

He trained in Newcastle upon Tyne and then worked in anaesthetics, hospital medicine and general practice before training in palliative medicine in the North East, Aberdeen, Nottingham and then Leicester.

He has been particularly interested in developing services for patients with neurological conditions, has some training in cognitive behaviour therapy and facilitates advanced communication skills courses.

He became the Medical Lead for LOROS in December 2006 and shares responsibility for developing the Hospice strategy, focusing particularly on community services.

Rob grew up in Leicester as part of a family that was very much involved in charity work in the city, county and in Rutland (one of his early memories is reading on the local talking newspaper service). After leaving university with a degree in politics, Rob began work as a policy officer and researcher in the field of dementia care. He went on to become head of policy, research and information for MHA Care Group before joining The National Deaf Children’s Society as director for England. He was chief executive of Leicester-based charity Action Homeless and spent six years leading Home-Start UK, the national umbrella organisation for the federation of Home-Start charities which together form the largest provider of volunteer-led home support for families in the UK. Since 2019, Rob has been chief executive of the University of Warwick Students’ Union. 

Rob is a trustee of Cats Protection, the country’s leading feline welfare charity. He has been the chair of HomeCome Ltd, a private not-for-profit company providing affordable housing for people in Leicester and was one of the original non-executive directors of Inclusion Healthcare, a community interest company that provides primary care services for asylum seekers and homeless people in Leicester. 

Rob is married and lives in Leicestershire. As a classically-trained (but very out of practice!) singer, he enjoys music and in recent years has started to get back into running, entering a few half marathons. He is a big Leicester City fan and has a season ticket at the King Power stadium.

RGN, BSc (Health Sciences) MSc (Advanced Nursing Practice-palliative pathway) Diploma in Professional Studies Nursing (Community Health) & PGCertHE.

Kerry has worked in specialist palliative care in hospitals, community settings and care homes as a clinical nurse specialist. She was appointed to the Education team in November 2008. Kerry has responsibility for the masters programme and the university certificate. She is Honorary Lecturer at the University of Northampton and De Montfort University. Her interests include communication skills and she is a trained advanced communications skills facilitator. In addition, she has a particular interest in the role of care homes in palliative care.

Donna joined LOROS in 2003 as a Healthcare Assistant (HCA) on the inpatient unit.

Donna began working at the Leicester General Hospital as a HCA in 1993. In the year 2000 she gained a post as a ‘B’ Grade HCA. This involved using enhanced skills to support the registered nurses and mentoring new HCAs.

Donna developed a passion for end of life care which led her to LOROS. She achieved NVQ Level 3 in Care and Foundation Degree Science in Health and Social Care/Palliative and Supportive Care.

Donna joined the Education team as an Assistant Practitioner in Practice Development in April 2015. This role is designed to support the development of HCAs, including the delivery and assessment of the Care Certificate for newly appointed and Apprentice HCAs.

I am a Bank Research Associate for the Centre of Excellence at LOROS hospice. With a background in primary care I have had many years’ experience working as a researcher in the field of Health Services Research. I am an experienced qualitative researcher, new to the area of palliative care. I have particular interests in mental health and improving services for ethnic minorities.

My previous experience prior to LOROS was working on paediatric oncology clinical trials where I was involved with all aspects of studies from project initiation through to publication.

I was fortunate that after 21 years in this area, there was clear evidence that research studies I worked on had made a real difference to patients. Such improvements can only be achieved through research programmes and just as there is a great need for research in the field of oncology there is likewise with hospice care. So following on from retirement last year, I have been a volunteer in the LOROS research department – one day a week -  where I provide support with LOROS research studies.

During this time I have found it particularly interesting to assist with the ‘Anxiety management in breathlessness’ study which explores the potential of an electronic device in treating anxiety in people who experience breathlessness, which will be opening to recruitment shortly.

Sarah joined LOROS in 2022 after working in the NHS for 13 years, 10 of those in Cardiac Research.

I am honoured to be LOROS’ first PhD student and be supervised by the deputy head of research Dr Zoebia Islam. My research revolves around the mental health and mental health literacy of young adults from ethnically diverse communities who provide care for someone with a serious illness. My aim is to develop a resource or intervention and influence policy for carers.

Before joining LOROS in 2013, Zoebia was the Heart of England Hub Manager for the Mental Health Research Network and a Senior Research Fellow at Birmingham and Solihull Mental Health Foundation Trust (BSMHFT). A sociologist by background, over the last 20 years she has contributed to education and research particularly in the area of ethnicity and health inequalities and inequity having managed a number of innovative and high profile projects at the University of Warwick’s Medical School and BSMHFT. At LOROS Zoebia is leading on novel work tackling health inequalities and inequity in end of life care planning experiences of ethnically diverse and minoritised patients and their families. She also Chairs and convenes the national ‘Sawubona – Equity in Palliative Care for All Research Forum’.

Christina has worked at LOROS for more than 20 years as a Consultant in palliative medicine.  She has been a professor at the University of Leicester since 2018. She leads the research programme at LOROS and  in partnership with the University of Leicester. She has written two award winning text books and is passionate about improving care for patients and their families through research and education.

Raina joined the events team at LOROS in early 2023 as the Mass Participation Events Coordinator. While studying Marketing at university, Raina had some experience planning her family members' weddings and decided that event planning was the route she wanted to go down. After graduating in 2022, she held a temporary role at Alton Towers during the Oktoberfest and Scarefest season, during which she got a good look in at how mass participation events work and all of the effort that goes into them. The role at LOROS seemed to be a perfect fit for her first 'proper' job in Events, and she's looking forward to building on her skills as she works on events such as the Twilight Walk, the Rothley 10k, and the Run Leicester Festival.

I've always been interested in the 'behind-the-scenes' of events and productions, so it made sense for me to go down this career path. I love seeing all the small pieces come together as they culminate into a fantastic event, and seeing the looks of pure joy on our participants' faces as they take part. It's an honour to be trusted with LOROS events, some of which have been happening for over a decade! I hope to help take LOROS events to the next level in the coming years, as well as develop my own skills and event knowledge along the way.

Megan joined the LOROS events team in April 2023 as Challenge Events Coordinator. She hit the ground running by heading off to London to congratulate Team LOROS on their victory to crossing the finish line of the London Marathon 2023. Alongside this, she’ll be focused on skydives, international treks and many more.

Megan has a background in event planning after completing an apprenticeship in Events Supervisory. She then continued her work within the events industry by arranging weddings and parties to hosting award ceremonies and networking breakfasts.

Megan said: “I’m proud to now be working within the events team at LOROS knowing that our events play a vital role in helping those who use LOROS services. I’m looking forward to the future as the possibilities for challenge events are endless, so watch this space!”

Iva joined the LOROS Events team in July 2023 as the Stewardship & Special Events Co-ordinator. After being granted the award of Bachelor of Arts in Events Management with Honours in 2021, Iva has been part of the corporate events sector for a couple of years, working on conferences, product launches and incentives.

My hobbies include photography and hiking, as well as exploring places in the nature I have not yet visited. My interest in events started from voluntary work and ever since I have always been passionate about organising events that have a valuable impact on a specific audience. I am grateful that I have the opportunity to be part of LOROS and very excited about contributing to the work of the Events team. I am positive that working towards achieving such meaningful goals will provide me with fulfilment on a daily basis.

Chris joined the LOROS Philanthropic Giving Team in April 2022 as Trusts and Grants Coordinator, with a focus on securing grants from trusts and foundations for the Hospice.

After graduating from De Montfort University with a BA in Fine Art - followed by an MA in Art Museum and Gallery Studies from the University of Leicester - Chris has been working in arts management and fundraising for the past ten years. Realising that fundraising was where he could make a difference, Chris decided to make a move into the charity sector and is delighted to take on this new role at LOROS.

Chris said: “I’m really excited to have joined the team at LOROS. It’s a real privilege to have the opportunity to support all the amazing care that our staff provides for patients and families.” 

Helen joined LOROS in March 2022 and has throughout a 20 year career in the charity sector, worked in fundraising manager roles for local and national charities including Sue Ryder Care, British Red Cross, and Rainbows hospice. Throughout this time, as a proud Leicestershire resident she has enjoyed getting to know lots of lovely folk who live here and loved supporting them with their fundraising.

Working for LOROS allows Helen to work for a cause she can personally identify with having lost her mum to cancer in 1998, and she is passionate about empowering others to make a positive difference to LOROS patients and families.

Emma began working for LOROS in October 2018 as a Community Fundraising Co-ordinator, working with our supporters and alongside Debbie with the community events.

Graduating with an Events Degree, employment continued in the events industry working for a corporate company arranging business events and for automotive clients. Before joining LOROS Emma spent 4 years organising events and conferences at a hotel, with all of these roles having many transferable skills to her role here at the Hospice.

Emma said: "I enjoy fundraising in my spare time so combining events and fundraising for my job is a dream! LOROS is such a special place, every day is different and I enjoy meeting and working with our enthusiastic volunteers and supporters."

Charlotte joined LOROS in August 2018 and is delighted to be part of the Fundraising Events team. Charlotte has always worked in Events, organising various Conferences & Events and Weddings within many well-known venues across Leicestershire.

Charlotte said: “I am so proud to have been given the opportunity to work within the Fundraising Events team here at LOROS and to contribute to the work of the hospice. There are so many amazing events in the pipeline that I can’t wait to be a part of!”

Debbie started working for LOROS as a volunteer receptionist at the Hospice in 2008 before joining the Fundraising team in 2010. She previously worked as an importer and exporter for a large point of sales company.

Debbie works as part of the Supporter Engagement Team and her role sees her looking after groups, teams and individuals fundraising for LOROS within the community. Debbie said: “I really enjoy working for LOROS and seeing the difference the Hospice makes for patients and their families. Working alongside our fantastic community supporters and our wonderful volunteers on a variety of amazing and creative fundraising ideas makes my role a real pleasure. We are all part of a dedicated team raising vital funds for LOROS. I feel very privileged to be working with such a well-loved local charity."

Andrew joined the LOROS Fundraising Team as a Fundraising Co-ordinator in September 2015, focusing on challenge events including the Tower Run and Into The Wild, amongst others.

Andrew has a background in Sales and Marketing and can speak fluent French and German, having previously worked in various roles across Europe. In 2012, Andrew was awarded a post-graduate diploma in International Growth from the Michael Smurfit Business School in Dublin.

Andrew said: “It's such a pleasure to be part of such an amazing team and contribute to the work of the Hospice. We have such a wide range of events from challenges, through to lunches, dinners, and corporate days, not to mention some really exciting campaigns. If you haven't attended, volunteered, or taken part in one of our events before then I highly recommend it!"

Laura began working at LOROS in July 2012 as a fundraising coordinator and since then has occupied the position of Partnership Development Executive and Events Lead, before being appointed Fundraising Manager in September 2017.

Laura was awarded a Bachelor of Science in Media Production & Technology from the University of Central Lancashire in 2010 and has recently become a member of the Institute of Fundraising; she recently studied for and achieved a Certificate in Fundraising through the Institute of Fundraising.

Laura said: “In my role at LOROS I am able to realise so many of my career aspirations. The role provides me with exciting challenges, constant variation and above all satisfaction and fulfilment. I love what I do and everything LOROS stands for.”

Lindsey joined the Lottery team in September 2014 after her mum received treatment at LOROS the year before. Lindsey supported the hospice by doing the Great Manchester swim in 2015 to raise much needed funds, and then decided she would like to be part of the lottery team to help generate income on a regular basis.

“I am passionate about LOROS and forever grateful for the excellent care my mum received, being part of the lottery team and helping it to grow is very satisfying and rewarding”

Michelle, Chris, and Elena are responsible for the day-to-day finance and administration of the Lottery office.

Fiona joined the team in 2021 as a lottery fundraiser, she already had a close link to the hospice as her mum passed away at LOROS in 2020. Fiona supported the hospice and did a skydive in 2020 which in turn lead her to want to develop a career within the hospice. 

In 2021 Fiona and her daughters supported the light up a life appeal and shared their story to our supporters and in turn we’re privileged to turn our Christmas tree lights on. In 2022 Fiona changed job roles into the Lottery Promotions Administrator. Fiona takes control of our events and venue research for our Lottery Fundraisers to attend. 

“LOROS is very close to my heart due to the care my mum received and the care myself and daughters also had after my mum had passed away. I’m passionate about my job and will continue to do all I can to help the hospice raise vital funds so they can continue giving the free high-quality care they do”  

Veselka joined the Lottery team in December 2016. Veselka promotes the LOROS Lottery and its products at venues and events across the county.

She is passionate about the Hospice, and loves chatting to the public and our supporters about the specialist care and other support services that LOROS provide.

Sarah has been part of the Lottery team since 2011. Sarah promotes the LOROS Lottery and its products at venues and events across the county.

She is passionate about the Hospice, and loves chatting to the public and our supporters about the specialist care and other support services that LOROS provide.

Dianne joined the team in October 2017. Dianne has a personal link to the Hospice, as LOROS provided inpatient care for her Mum in 2016. It is around this time that she began volunteering for LOROS, managing the city centre cash donation boxes. She is now a Relief Cash Collector for our Lottery players.

SJ joined LOROS in 2014  as a Shop manager after a long career in Banking, and stepped up into the Area Manager position in January 2020.

SJ’s role is to manage LOROS’s 13 ‘traditional’ charity shops across Leicester, Leicestershire and Rutland.

She enjoys working with people and aims to maximise income for patient care by ensuring excellent standards across all shops.

SJ says she is so happy to work for LOROS and loves going home knowing she has made a difference. She is proud of her team and the work they do together.