The Lady Smith DL joins Compassion in Action’s Board

The Lady Smith DL has been officially welcomed to the Board at Compassion in Action (CIA).

The appointment was formally announced at the charity’s Annual Board Review Meeting (ABRM), which took place on 9 July at our headquarters, Patrick House.

Paying tribute to Lord Peter, who sadly passed away in August 2021, our CEO Pam Gilligan expressed her thanks to Lady Smith [Joy] for continuing her late husband’s legacy.

“Lord and Lady Smith have supported CIA for many years as valued, respected members of our extended family,” said Pam. “We miss our dear friend Peter, and it is truly a personal honour to now sit alongside Lady Smith as a fellow Board member. Peter’s legacy continues through her work across the community, and Lady Smith’s wealth of knowledge and expertise will do our charity a great service.”

During the ABRM, the Board reviewed the annual accounts, which were compiled by our Finance Director Sharon Walker. Pam, in her capacity as CEO, presented a report highlighting the past 12 months’ achievements. These include the opening of Oasis House 1 & 2, a commissioned service which offers short-term therapeutic residential accommodation to adults experiencing mental health distress or crisis. The continued success of CIA’s wellbeing centre, Haven House, and the well-evidenced support provided to families impacted by Covid throughout the pandemic, were also cited.

A review of the charity’s assets, which include its Community Village of Inclusion, Stheart Homes and the Community Outlet at Lowton, focused on maintenance, management and service provision – with plans outlined for the year ahead.

“I am pleased to have been able to share such a positive update about our charity, which continues to remain committed to helping people out of crisis and into independence,” added Pam.

“There is no doubt that the cost of living crisis is deepening – pushing people further into food and fuel poverty. We will continue to work in partnership with the council, the third sector, the business community and local residents to find innovative solutions to the significant challenges the Wigan Borough faces. Together, we can make a difference.”

Presenting his report to the Board, William Stalker said: “I am never disappointed and always greatly encouraged by the ongoing commitment of the CEO Pam Gilligan. Pam brings to the charity dedication, vision and valuable enthusiasm to ‘Whole Person Care’, which is the bedrock of Compassion in Action and, over the years, has contributed to the success of the charity.

‘Pam has proved to be, since the inception of the charity, its main inspiration and driving force. This year has proved to be no exception, with our CEO working on a new and exciting development which will involve short-term residential provision for those most in need. This will be under the supervision and oversight of Compassion in Action.

‘As Chairman, I am greatly encouraged by the vision, leadership and commitment of the Board of Directors, and I look forward with anticipation and excitement to the future. I am confident that the valuable work we do will grow and bring much-needed support to the people of Leigh and beyond.”

An Annual General Meeting will be held on a date to be confirmed, to which interested parties will be invited.