JUDI Byrne has joined Michael Sobell Hospice Charity, Northwood, as its new chief executive.

With more than 20 years’ experience in healthcare, predominately in palliative and end-of-life care, Judi's career spans roles with St Luke's Hospice, Kenton, Sue Ryder and NHS acute and clinical commissioning organisations.

She has also contributed to the NHS National End of Life Care Strategy and led on the building, commissioning and opening of a new hospice in Lincolnshire.

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She said: “I look forward to building on the achievements of the last four decades, and continuing to put patients and their loved ones at the centre of everything we do.

 “These are very challenging times for hospice charities and I am mindful of the income and local support we need to continue our vital services.”

Sobell needs to raise more than £1.6m every year to fund essential hospice care, including a 16-bed in-patient unit and day centre.