Meet the clinical staff

Lisa, Front Desk Administrator (Reception)

Lisa is often the first person visitors meet when they arrive at Katharine House Hospice. Known for her warm, welcoming manner, she helps put people at ease from the moment they walk through the door.

Name: Lisa Roberts
Job Title: Front Desk Administrator (Reception)
Joined the team: January 2024

How did you get into your role and come to work for Katharine House?

I had been working as a Teaching Assistant in a local primary school for several years and decided I would like to return to the NHS, after an 18-month break following more than 30 years of service.

This role really stood out to me, so I arranged an informal visit to the hospice. As soon as I arrived, I knew it was somewhere I would like to work. I will never forget driving over the little bridge and feeling like I was entering a different world.

What’s a typical day like?

There is no such thing as a typical day. As the first person to greet anyone who comes through the door, you never know what type of query will arise, and there is never a dull moment.

My role includes coordinating room bookings, outpatient appointments and calendars, answering the telephone and working closely with our wonderful volunteers.

What do you wish people knew about hospice care?

Hospice care is not just about the end of life. Once a patient is referred, there are many different types of support available, including outpatient appointments, community support, Living Well sessions and inpatient care, as well as counselling and bereavement services.

We also see many visitors who return regularly, perhaps to walk in the gardens or sit in our beautiful Sanctuary to reflect and remember someone close to them.

How does it feel to work for the hospice?

This has to be the best role I’ve had so far. I feel honoured to be part of such an amazing team of dedicated people, and it is a real privilege to be the first person to welcome visitors to the hospice.

What makes Katharine House so special?

The holistic approach to care, and the beautiful gardens that surround the hospice.

Now for some quick-fire questions…

If I had to sum up my role in one sentence, I’d say: providing a welcoming, friendly face to help put people at ease when they arrive at the hospice.

The best thing about my job is: meeting lots of different people and getting to know our regular visitors and being able to signpost people to support and see the positive outcomes.

My highlight since joining Katharine House is: working with such an amazing and welcoming team.

If I could go anywhere in the world, I’d go to: New Zealand.

My favourite dessert is: apple crumble and custard.

My all-time greatest song is: Groove Is in the Heart by Deee-Lite. It was one of the first songs my husband and I danced to, and we played it at our wedding reception.

People are often surprised when I tell them: I have an interest in the history of the London Underground.

My idea of a perfect day is: a lie-in, a crumpet and a cup of tea in bed, followed by a walk along the beach and reading a good book.

My favourite thing to eat is: authentic Italian food.

My proudest moment was: having my two daughters.

When I’m not at work, you will probably find me: working in my garden or going for a long walk.

My go-to biscuit is: a custard cream.

If I had one superpower, it would be: going back in time to meet the people I have lost.

If I was stranded on a desert island, I would want: an endless supply of good books.

Katharine House Hospice

To find out more about the work we do, read What we do.
Read about the End-of-life care and Palliative Care (EPiC) Resource Centre, designed to support you and your family and friends, wherever you are in your journey with Katharine House Hospice.
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