About Us

Our Patrons & Honorary President

Honorary President - Paul Jackson

Paul is a retired local businessman with a strong connection to the area. He joined the Willow Burn board of trustees in 2006 to bring a business focus to the organisation, and get more involved in income generation ideas and activities. In 2017 Paul was appointed chairman of the board where he served for seven years to lead Willow Burn into a new, sustainable future.

Paul is a passionate supporter of Willow Burn and is known locally as Mr Willow Burn.

Patron - Helen McArdle CBE

Willow Burn Hospice has the good fortune to call Helen McArdle CBE a patron and ambassador for the charity.

Helen McArdle CBE, a local businesswoman who was born and raised in the area, has built her own successful business providing the very best care to the elderly throughout the North East for over 30 years. In 2015 this was recognised when she was awarded a CBE for her services to care.

Helen visited Willow Burn and was struck by the passion, enthusiasm and commitment of the staff and the fantastic work they do. Sharing this same passion and commitment, she felt compelled to help. In February 2017, she agreed to fund and oversee the rebuilding of the In-Patient Unit – now the Helen McArdle Wing – to create a facility the hospice could be proud of. One that was befitting of the great work that is done here.

To become a Patron of Willow Burn Hospice, please contact us and we would be delighted to discuss this further and answer any questions.

Please contact Jane Robinson, Chair on 01207 529 224 or email jrobinson@willowburnhospice.org.uk

"Everyone has one common goal and that is to ensure the local population get the very best care and I truly believe that Willow Burn is the finest hospice in the area for service, comfort, and design." Helen McArdle CBE

Your Stories


"The care is outstanding, the staff are wonderful. Nothing is a bother. I count myself blessed to be able to end my days in such a wonderful place."

"I cannot imagine a more caring & positive day - Lovely atmosphere, full of surprises!"

"Our family can never thank Willow Burn and the team enough for the amazing care and compassion our Mam received. We all take comfort in knowing Mam could not of been in a better place to spend her last days. For that we will be eternally grateful."

MCcrory Family

“How do I thank you all? Where do I begin?  The care, love and support you showed my beautiful sister and also to our whole family was incredible. You are a superb team and you should be very proud of every shift you work.  There aren’t enough words or big enough words to continue...so in the words of my sister...if the only prayer you say in your entire life is ‘thank you’ that’ll be enough.  Much love to you all ”

Thank you!

Anything is possible when you have the right people there to support you. Thank you.

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