International Women’s Day – Harlington Hospice

International Women’s Day

March 5, 2026

Each year on 8 March, organisations and communities around the world come together to celebrate International Women’s Day, recognising the achievements of women and calling for greater equality. This year’s theme, Give to Gain, encourages us to consider how supporting, uplifting and investing in one another creates stronger teams, workplaces and communities for everyone.

We are proud to mark the day by shining a light on the remarkable women who shape our work every day. Below, you will find nominations and heartfelt quotes from colleagues across the organisation, celebrating the compassion, skill, leadership and quiet determination of women who inspire those around them and make a lasting difference to the people and families we support.

"Adele has volunteered for the Hospice for 13 years in varying roles, and at the moment she helps cover reception and attends many of our fundraising events. Adele is often the very first face families see when they walk through the doors. A warm smile and a gentle tone can immediately put patients and their families at ease. She regularly helps at our fundraising events and selflessly gives us her time. Her selflessness motivates me to think beyond my own goals."

Adele

Reception Volunteer

"Rajinder is at the centre of the Psychological and Emotional Support team. She keeps everything running smoothly and is always cheerful, compassionate, and super-supportive to her teammates. From managing our referrals and coordinating our meetings, to keeping us organised with our patients and clients, Rajinder still finds time to bring us together for team nights out and shared lunches. Rajinder isn’t just brilliant at her job, she is a wonderful woman who inspires us every single day".

Rajinder

Psychological and Emotional Support

"Valerie, Navie and Bernie have faced a particularly tough year, yet they have continued to show exceptional professionalism throughout. Despite the challenges, they have remained a steady source of support for their team. Their commitment to giving clients 100% has never wavered, and they consistently go above and beyond to ensure every person they support receives the highest level of care."

Valerie, Navie and Bernie

Care Connection Team

"The secret weapon supporting the hospice medical team, organised, devoted, conscientious and compassionate. Doesn't miss a thing!"

Sandra

PA to Medical Director

“Maria only joined the hospice a few months back and her finance skills are really obvious, however also she sees finances as the support to good care, not an end in itself. She is already helping our organisation make good decisions including how we invest in our team.”

Maria

Finance

"Jane is the kind of leader who empowers you to stretch, grow, and succeed. She trusts you to deliver, supports you every step of the way, and brings an energy that makes working with her both motivating and fun."

Jane

Chief Executive

"Mandy is amazing - her organisational skills and attention to detail help all those around her. She is incredibly helpful and always goes above and beyond to gather information, truly embodying the spirit of support and collaboration."

Mandy

Clinical Services

"As Trustee, Shreena is our Freedom to Speak up Guardian – she juggles a busy job, family and compassionately supporting the hospice in this volunteer role. "

Shreena

Trustee

"Paula has been a driving force within the PES department, having built and developed a highly capable and cohesive team, and creating an environment where people feel supported, motivated and able to perform at their best. Paula consistently demonstrates a high level of professionalism. She approaches challenges with composure, sound judgment, and a strong sense of accountability. Paula is genuine source of inspiration to other professional women across the organisation. Her leadership style is grounded in integrity, confidence and collaboration and she sets a positive example and encourages others to grow, contribute, and lead."

Paula

Psychological & Emotional Services

"Emma is the most supportive manager I have had in my entire career. Where possible she’ll go above and beyond to help and is always open to suggestions, she trusts (and backs) my judgement when making difficult decisions. What inspires me most is that Emma is in a senior management position and (an amazing) full time mum to a toddler. I honestly don't know how she does it all, I couldn't. Thank you for being you Emma, never change or forget how much you are valued."

Emma

Retail (on left)

"Sometimes work on the unit can be emotionally draining (and hard work). Teresa is really great at recognising these pressures on herself and colleagues. In particular she’s our social secretary pulling us together to relax and reflect. As well as being a wonderful nurse!"

Teresa

Nurse, Inpatient Unit

"Ros’s knowledge and experience is universally respected across the sector and beyond, and yet somehow she remains incredibly grounded, approachable and helpful to those she works with, across all levels and disciplines."

Ros

Medical Director (on right)

"Kerry consistently works for the best interests of both patients and staff, demonstrating a remarkable dedication to her role. Kerry is incredibly helpful and realistic, always open to feedback and committed to improving our services. Her hard work and passion truly make a difference in our organisation."