Rick Bolton
Trustee
Hello Rick! Tell us about yourself…
I’m Rick, I’m a trustee and I’ve been a Derian parent for about four years. As a trustee, it’s important for me to ensure that Derian continues to provide the best possible care and support to the children and families who use the hospice.
What did you want to be when you grew up?
As a kid, I was massively into fossils, dinosaurs and rocks, but jobs in Jurassic Park are sadly pretty rare! I started working in residential children’s homes during university holidays, and then trained part time as a social worker. I’ve been in children and families social work for 22 years now, working with young people in the criminal justice system, and in adult and children’s safeguarding. I am now independent as a consultant and contractor in the social care and health sectors. I have three sons, including twelve-year-old Isaac who has quadriplegic cerebral palsy and has very complex life-limiting health needs. Isaac has been coming to Derian House for a few years, so having the opportunity to help as a trustee was a real honour, and a chance for me to contribute to the amazing work the team do.
What’s the best thing about being on the Board of Trustees here at Derian House?
The best thing about being a trustee is coming together with other passionate and skilled colleagues across the hospice staff and trustees, and knowing that we are all motivated by the one common goal of making Derian House the best it can be.
Tell us about a favourite moment…
My favourite Derian experiences are both as a dad and as a trustee. Because of the ‘can do’ attitude of the fabulous Care Team, Derian gave Isaac his first experience of being in a swimming pool a few years ago – despite him having a tracheostomy which was always seen as the barrier prior to that – and created memories for him. For us as a family, that’s something that I’ll never forget. As a trustee, it’s been amazing getting to see the huge amount of behind-the-scenes work that keeps the charity functioning… as well as getting to know the team!
What makes you feel proud to be a part of an exciting new chapter at Derian House?
I’m excited to join Derian at a time of change, where there’s an opportunity to reflect and build on what’s strong about the hospice’s community. I’m proud to be part of an ethos where the ‘small moments in-between’ really matter; and that we’re committed to a journey that truly involved our families, our supporters and partners, our many volunteers, and all those whose hearts are touched by what Derian does best in providing care, comfort, love and kindness.