Who we are
We gift people who are receiving palliative care some time away in beautiful places so they can spend precious time with loved ones. We source time in self-catering holiday properties and match them to people referred to us by health professionals and care workers.
We started out as a group of family and friends, three of whom battled with ovarian and breast cancer. They are still with us in spirit and will remain our inspiration and motivation. As we have grown new property owners, referrers and supporters have joined us.
Why?
In 2011 Angela Sturgeon was diagnosed with ovarian cancer. During her illness Ange campaigned tirelessly, raising over £42,000 for various cancer charities. She loved spending precious time away with family and friends where she could take a break from hospitals, feel normal again and build lasting memories. She wanted to help others do the same, so raised a further £13,000 to set up A Bit of a Break.
Our Trustees
Jules Armson
Jules’ career was primarily in healthcare marketing. Post retirement she has been involved with the charity sector as well as working to encourage children’s love of literacy and nature.
Paula Hunt
Paula has an NHS/charity background and has more recently worked with her husband running their own holiday cottage business.
Dr Mike Merriman
Mike is the clinical director of Kirkby PCN in Knowsley, Liverpool. As one of Angela Sturgeon’s brothers he is proud to be continuing the family link.
Helen Pilling
Having worked as a Solicitor, Helen spent time in the voluntary and education sectors before returning to the Legal profession.
Kim Reddyhoff
Kim, now retired, has a background in social work, where she practiced for twenty five plus years, latterly in palliative care.
Chris Wiley
Chris has been CEO of Carers’ Resource for the last six years and has been involved with A Bit Of A Break from the outset.
The Team
Rachel Boggs
Rachel joined in 2021 as our Operations Coordinator. Rachel has wide experience across the charities sector and in IT. She works with us part-time and is the best first point of contact.
Contact us
Referrals / General / other queries
Rachel Boggs – rachel@abitofabreak.com 07516 315602
Charity queries
Helen Pilling – helen@abitofabreak.com 07990 977040
Properties
Paula Hunt – paula@abitofabreak.com 07801 860565
