Richard Soulsby, Chief Executive of Katharine House Hospice, will be leaving after almost 30 years.

The charity supports adults with progressive and complex needs from diagnosis to end of life care.

Katharine House welcomed their first in-patient in 2000 having previously provided hospice care at home.  

The services are offered free of charge, and the charity now has 200 members of staff and almost 600 volunteers.  

Speaking about what the charity has achieved Mr Soulsby said:  

"We've built the Inpatient Unit, created a lymphoedema service, developed Hospice at Home, brought in the Palliative Care Nursing Service, repurposed the day unit to provide outpatient, therapy and wellbeing services, strengthened our retail and fundraising operations, and cared for tens of thousands of families across our community."  

Richard will begin a new role at the Hospice of the Good Shepherd in Chester.  

On his decision to leave Mr Soulsby said:  

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"It has not been an easy decision. I have enjoyed my time here, and I know I will miss so many people at this hospice as it has been a massive part of my life."  

David Fletcher, who is currently Director of Care, will serve as an Interim Chief Executive.  

Speaking about his new position Mr Fletcher said:   

"As I step up as Interim Chief Executive, supported by our Executive Team and Trustees, we will honour Richard's legacy. We will maintain stability, look after our people, and continue to deliver compassionate care every day while we recruit our next Chief Executive."  

It is clear Mr Soulsby is a valued and respected member of the team.  

In a recent blog post Katharine House Hospice said:  

"We will miss him. We also feel proud that he will continue to lead care at another hospice.  On behalf of our staff, volunteers, trustees, and supporters – thank you, Richard. We wish you every success in this next chapter."