Behind the Big Red Door: An Inside Look at Helen & Douglas House
Behind the Big Red Door: An Inside Look at Helen & Douglas House
Step Behind the Big Red Door this April and discover the remarkable work that happens every day at Helen & Douglas House.
This special online event will introduce you to the incredible team who support children with life‑limiting conditions, and their families.
Whether you’re a supporter, partner, or simply curious to learn more, this is your chance to hear directly from the team and beneficiaries at Helen & Douglas House.
Key details
Date: Tuesday 28th April 2026
Time: 1 – 2pm
Location: Online via Microsoft Teams – you will be sent an easy to join link in advance
Meet our speakers
Join our panel as they share insights, personal stories, and an inside look at the care we provide:
David Whittingham – CEO
I’m David, and I joined the Hospice as Chief Executive Officer (CEO) in 2025. For the last 15 years, I’ve worked in not for profit leadership roles, in both a professional and voluntary capacity. I’ve also worked across multiple sectors, including higher education, the armed forces, amateur and community sport and homelessness prevention.
Read more
I have deep experience in leading and developing organisations to deliver positive and sustained impact for beneficiaries. I’m passionate about the empowerment of individuals and communities, and believe in a leadership style that is characterised by collaboration and co-creation as foundations for success.
I have a postgraduate degree in Voluntary Sector Management, and gained my undergraduate degree from Oxford Brookes University.
Lucy Butters – Registered Nurse
I’m Lucy, and I’ve been working as a nurse for Helen & Douglas House since 2017. Growing up in Oxfordshire and knowing some families who used Helen House, it was a dream job for me.
To support a child and their family through changing health needs, whilst also the changing needs of normal childhood development, to hold their hand through navigating loss of skills, escalating symptoms, palliative care from the start of the journey to the end, and bereavement is a huge privilege.
Read more
I meet the most incredible people, and I work alongside the most caring and compassionate individuals with the same goals as me. I juggle a full time nursing role and a young family with two children, and it takes a village to make my life work – but I get to be part of the village of healthcare workers that support families of children on their palliative care journey to live life well and that is truly special.
Rachel Haines – Family Speaker
We have been part of the Helen & Douglas house for 3 years now and see it as an extended version of home. From every member of staff to it’s welcoming atmosphere we would be lost without it. I look forward to being able to share the point of view of a family member and really highlighting just how wonderful it is.
Register today
Register your place by completing the registration form below. We’d love for you to join us. Joining instructions will be shared with you following sign up.
If you have any questions about the event, please get in touch at [email protected]