Nightingale Hammerson CEO Helen Simmons is to leave in 2022 to become chief executive of St Christopher’s Hospice, London.

During her eight years at the charity, its Nightingale home in Clapham has achieved the rarity of an overall “outstanding” Care Quality Commission rating.

A nursery has opened on the South London site offering pioneering intergenerational activities and “winter pressure” NHS units have operated from the premises through an arrangement with St George’s Hospital.

And on schedule, the charity’s Hammerson home in Hampstead Garden Suburb reopened in May following a £40 million redevelopment.

Ms Simmons said she had “thoroughly enjoyed” her time at Nightingale Hammerson.
“It has truly gone from strength to strength.
“Our values are evident in all that we do — dignity, excellence, respect, compassion, integrity and teamwork.

“I have no doubt that Nightingale Hammerson will remain at the forefront of care, with the benefit of its 180-year history of care excellence.”

An executive search firm will be commissioned to find Ms Simmons’ successor and the intention is to ensure a smooth transition.

Nightingale Hammerson chair Melvin Lawson expressed sadness at Ms Simmons’ impending departure but gratitude for the “outstanding job” she had done.

“We are confident that her successor will build on the very strong foundations that are in place.”