‘It makes a difference’
The new boss in charge of Grace House has spoken of her vision for the charity and how she wants it to be a “regional asset”.
Sunderland-born and raised Victoria Brown has taken up the role of chief executive at the respite care facility for children and young people with complex disabilities, after former leader Dr Karen Parry left before Christmas.
Victoria’s previous role was operations manager at Age UK in Sunderland, where she had worked for 17 years.
She attended Monkwearmouth School before studying a health and social care degree at Teesside University.
Victoria has followed the progress of Grace House with interest, after an initial Echo-backed appeal began in 2002.
“Family and friends have done quote a bit of fundraising for Grace House over the years and I live quite close to the building, so I’ve had good awareness of the work we do,” she said.
“It’s a vital service we provide for the city and region – as a parent I know how tricky organizing children’s lives can be, but for parents with children with complex disabilities and complications, life can be very difficult.
“So to have a support mechanism like Grace House for the whole family, is a phenomenal facility on our doorstep.
“It makes a real difference to people’s lives.
Victoria started her new role in mid-March and has already met parents and families of some of the young people who use Grace House.
Grace House works with partner Sunderland Care and Support (SCS) to deliver its specialist services, and Victoria knows the team from her time with Age UK.
David Cook, chairman of Grace House Board of Trustees, said: “We’re thrilled Victoria has joined us.
“She knows Grace House well and within the voluntary sector locally and regionally Victoria is a well -established and well-respected figure.”