Goodbye to Neil and a warm welcome to Gen!

It's a change of faces at ELF for 2026 as we lose one member of the team and gain another.

Firstly, we wish a fond farewell to Neil from our Transport Service as he moves on to pastures new.

Neil joined ELF 4 years ago and in that time he has been a much valued member of the team and a friendly face to patients on the hundreds of journeys he has made to and from their hospital appointments. Plus, who can forget his star turn on guitar at our Volunteer Summer Tea Party last July!

Neil's new role is with the NHS Blood Service, so he will remain an asset to the field of haematology. Good luck Neil and thank you from us all!

As one door close, another one opens. We are delighted to introduce you to our newest member of the ELF team: Gen Ottaway, who has joined us as the Head of Patient Services.

Gen says: "I'll be based at RD&E's Yarty Ward 3 days a week, ready to answer any questions from patients or staff about the excellent selection of services which ELF has to offer. I'll also be looking to grow ELF's range of services, and build stronger relationships with the outstanding NHS teams, and with other local charities. I look forward to meeting ELF's fantastic volunteer team, both those involved with fundraising, and those who help with delivering the patient services!"

Welcome Gen! She can be contacted via email at gen@elfcharity.org.uk and we look forward to updating you on the impact Gen makes in the role throughout the year.