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We didn’t want to leave them hanging about on the Intranet on their own, so now that we’ve got four (relatively) new starters, let’s find out more about them!

Gillian Viragh – HR Administrator

Our latest addition to the HR department has spent most of her working career in HR, with her previous position at a small, family-run planning company lasting for seven years… when she was only supposed to be the maternity cover for 10 months!

Gillian was browsing for jobs when she came across the one at Derian House, and it was exactly what she was looking for. She’s lived next door to us for a whopping 24 years, and is only a six-minute walk away. Not only is it super convenient, but over the years she’s heard loads about the amazing work that our charity does, and she wanted to be a part of it.

Gillian loves working with people, and especially watching staff members develop throughout their career. She’s already hit the ground running when it comes to recruitment, having been part of the employment of over ten members of staff since she first started back in February.

Outside of work, Gillian enjoys planning holidays abroad and being mum to Maisy and Marnie.

FUN FACT: Gillian and her twin brother were born in Hungary!

Paula Buchanan – Administrator/Receptionist

After 35 years working in a range of customer service roles, Paula sought after a job where she could truly make a difference, and was at a point in her life where she wanted to be a part of something special.

With a stretch of 16 years of HomeServe, Paula brings to Derian a range of experience of working with people, and she’s already made a big impression with our Reception volunteers who she works closely alongside.

When she first started with us early last month, our Administrator was looking forward to being part of a team that supports one another, and meeting all of our staff and volunteers – and she’s absolutely loving it!

When she’s not at work, Paula loves running, and is mum to both Oliver and Mia, and dog mum to Norma the seven-year-old Shih Tzu.

FUN FACT: Paula was once at a friend’s wedding where guests included Declan Donnelly and Stephen Mulhern!

Sarah James – Estate Maintenance Support

The first of our two new starters within the Estates Team is Sarah, who currently lives in Crewe! (But not for much longer, hopefully!)

After 17 years of living in Chorley, our latest handy-woman relocated for her son’s education, but is (almost) back and ready to get stuck in here at Derian House.

Sarah has worked in maintenance for most of her career, with a stretch at Cuerden Valley Park where she worked as a park ranger as part of a tightknit team. She’s got a degree in ecology and conservation management, and even has both a chainsaw and tractor license!

She’s always known of Derian House whilst living in Chorley, and has even attended some of our fundraisers. She’s used to working at charity events due to her time at Cuerden, so is looking forward to more of the same here at the hospice.

When she’s not working – or travelling to and from Crewe – Sarah is a keen gardener and has her own vegetable patch, and also enjoys a spot of camping.

FUN FACT: Sarah’s nickname is Jimmy – so if you shout it, she’ll answer!

Ken Whalen – Estates Maintenance Support

Completing our line-up is Ken from Darwen, who has spent 20 years of his working life at Twin Valleys (previously Together Housing). He’s always held up grounds maintenance roles, varying from Crown Wall Coverings to BwD Council, and is looking forward to making a difference here at Derian House.

Ken actually did a sponsored walk for the hospice many moons ago, dressed head-to-toe as Freddie Kruger as he hiked from Ewood Park to Derian… and then back again!

He’s looking forward to using his skillset to make a difference here at Derian House, and learning about all the facilities here at the hospice.

Outside of work, Ken loves doing anything arty, caring for his house rabbit Shadow, and holidaying to Thailand.

FUN FACT: Ken is a a seasoned pumpkin carver, and spends his spare time making incredible 3D creations (mainly in the month of October).