Frances Simpson

I have joined RLP as an Interim Programme Manager, covering some of Hayley’s role whilst she is away, and I knew from the first time I walked into the office that this was an amazing place to be. My new colleagues live and breathe the values of the organisation and the feeling of being at home even though I had only just learned where the kettle lived was due entirely to the welcome and the warmth of everyone I met.

At the end of 2021 I had completed just over 30 years in the voluntary sector, working with local and national organisations supporting people affected mainly by poor mental health and mental illness. My last role was as CEO of a national charity and having battled through the pandemic working from home decided – like so many others in my position – that it was time for a change.

After a short time working with the RSPB in a very different nature-based role, being given the opportunity of working with RLP was just too good to pass up. It is a real privilege as it allows me to reconnect with some of the work I used to do but connect to new things that will challenge me in different ways.

I love being back in an office again sharing coffee and conversation with people face to face but my journey time from my home in Angus means I might not be there every day! But just feeling part of a team that really cares about what we do definitely make it a bit easier to face that early alarm!

My personal passion is nature and conservation, and so when I am not at work you will find me in the garden, elbow deep in compost attempting to grow things and create a home for wildlife; or spending time with family including my 3 adorable grandchildren.