North West charity marks 11th anniversary with key appointment

Reuben’s Retreat has announced that David Robinson, former CEO of Derian House Children’s Hospice, will be working with the charity as a strategic consultant.

David has embarked on the exciting project with Reuben’s Retreat’s Founder and CEO, Nicola Graham, to develop the charity’s future Strategic Aims as they enter an exciting new phase of providing even more initiatives for the wellbeing of families in need of their support.

Reuben passed away 11 years ago on August 21st and 23rd August marks the beginning of his legacy, Reuben’s Retreat. In the last 11 years, the charity has set to work renovating an old cottage hospital that dates back to 1889 and has touched the lives of over 2,000 individuals.

Having completed six phases of its multi-million-pound renovation project, Reuben’s Retreat is now making final plans to realise its vision. The remaining phases will house a minimum of four self-catering suites for families to enjoy much-needed time together. These will be high spec, adapted, accessible and hoisted accommodations for families to “Relax and Recharge” with views of the park, its gardens and the rolling countryside of the Peak District National Park.

Whilst the intricate details are being finalised and costed, it is believed that Reuben’s Retreat will need to raise between £3.5m and £4m to complete the project. Receiving no government funding, the charity relies heavily on public support. As Reuben’s Mummy has always said -“Reuben’s Retreat will be built on an army of love and compassionate hearts”.

Nicola added: “I am absolutely thrilled to have David’s love and support. He has been incredibly complimentary of our work and achievements. He has an empathetic and considerate approach to our vision. He also holds a great deal of knowledge, has a proven track record from his valuable time at Derian House and is a fellow of our beloved travel industry too. We speak a similar language and have many mutual past colleagues and friends. I feel very fortunate to have his gift of time and talent.”

David said:

“I have known about the amazing work of Reuben’s Retreat during my tenure at Derian House and am excited to support Nicola and the team to deliver their ambitious plans for the charity. The passion they have to support the families who need their service is overwhelming and it is an honour to be asked to work with them on these exciting plans.”

To date, the charity has raised in excess of £6m in total, spending circa £2.5m on their renovation project the Retreat, which now houses a full £1m activity wing including a hydro pool. Reuben’s Retreat then hold reserves for running costs whilst costing to operate, actively looking after 600+ individuals at the current time.

Every penny counts and is vital in the support of families that have lost a child and families that may face an uncertain future, with their child or children living with medical complexities.

Up-to-date news and information about vacancies and support is available by following @reubensretreat and #reubensjourney on social media or by visiting www.reubensretreat.org