Hugely respected third sector leader decides it is time to retire

Gillian Morbey, the founder of deafblindness charity Sense Scotland, is stepping down as chief executive of the UK organisation.

Richard Kramer, currently deputy chief executive and director of policy and communications at Sense, will succeed her.

Morbey, the mother of a disabled child, founded Sense Scotland with other parents in a bid to create better support services.

After heading up the Scottish charity since 1985 she was given the role of leading its sister organisation in England in 2010.

Once retired Morbey says she will work part-time developing a new centre for the charity in Birmingham.

“I have served the Sense family for over 35 years. I have experienced some really difficult times and some truly joyous moments and have shared these times with courageous families and wonderful staff. “Sense and Sense International will thrive and prosper. I wish everyone well – it’s been a real privilege.”

Justin Molloy, the charity’s chair, said: “Gill has led Sense through some of the most turbulent times that charities have had to face and has done so with huge determination, authenticity, and with a leadership style that has been an inspiration to the whole organisation. “Gill has pioneered the establishment of the TouchBase model, both in Scotland and England. In doing so, she has brought innovation, creativity and a social entrepreneurial approach, not only to Sense but the wider sector.”

Kramer said: “Over the last five years I have been touched by the incredible work Sense do. I am immensely proud and humbled to be appointed chief executive. “This is a charity that I love and which matters to me. Sense’s work is vitally important and we continue to strive to bring positive change for the people we support and their families.”