Meet our new general manager, Helen Robinson

UPDATE: Helen has resigned as manager as of December 2021. We’re grateful for her contribution and everything she’s done for the Southland Charity Hospital.

Our brand-new general manager, Helen Robinson, had a baptism by fire when she took on her role with the Southland Charity Hospital.

Originally from England, and having moved to Invercargill from Shetland (an archipelago in the Northern Isles of Scotland), she started with the hospital on Wednesday 29 July – just two days before our inaugural Buy A Brick Day.

Suffice to say, it was a busy way to start her new job. Keep reading to get to know a bit more about Helen.

Name?

Helen Robinson

Occupation and professional background?

Background is in Managment of specialist care / support services. My most recent position before moving to New Zealand was with a not-for-profit organisation.

Roles held with the Southland Charity Hospital?

General manager

How did you hear about plans to create the Southland Charity Hospital?

I started to see posts about its formation on social media, and then saw the general manager position advertised. 

What compelled you to become involved in this cause?

I felt my skills and experience would fit well with the organisation as well as being a cause close to my heart. I was impressed with the  energy and drive to make the Southland Charity Hospital a reality.

What are your hopes or goals for the Southland Charity Hospital?

To be a high-quality, well-regarded facility providing healthcare to people that would otherwise be unable to access such care.

Why is the work being done by the Southland Charity Hospital so crucial?

To enable ALL people to have fair access to the healthcare they need regardless of where they live or their economic status.

How will the Southland Charity Hospital make a difference in our community?

It will not only offer the healthcare to people but will be a valued community asset that can adapt and expand with the needs of the community.

If the Southland Charity Hospital did not exist, what would life look like for people in our community?

People would continue to experience inequitable healthcare and potentially some would continue to fall through the cracks of the system.