Joanne Lloyd, Chair

Jo worked as a nurse for many years in Chichester, Lancashire and Scotland, specialising in elderly care when she first qualified. Her last nursing role was caring for people with disabilities – specifically multiple sclerosis - in a respite holiday home in North Berwick. After a short spell of ill-health she worked for six years in an art shop and then for sixteen years she worked as a teaching assistant in a mainstream school in Dorking, Surrey, supporting children with physical and sensory disabilities and some who are neurodivergent. She retired in July 2022 and has since taken on various voluntary roles which she relishes. She loves music, dancing, gardening, walking and is interested in history, literature and art.  

 

Jo became a committee member at the end of 2022 and started volunteering in the Friends Shop every other Monday, she was elected Chair of the Friends in October 2023. Jo says:  

 

“Being in the Friends Shop gave me real insight into the variety of departments at King’s as well as an opportunity to meet staff, patients and their friends and relatives. The atmosphere in the Friends Shop is peaceful and welcoming and is a place for people to take some time away from the busyness of the Hospital. Some people like to just come in to browse and others often like to chat to those behind the counter.”  

 

Jo is very keen to encourage others to get involved with the Friends of King’s, whether that’s volunteering in the Shop, becoming a member, or even just having some retail therapy! If you know someone who would like to get involved, please ask them to contact the Friends at

kch-tr.friendsofkings@nhs.net