The new chief executive of a beloved children’s charity has said he is looking forward joining a cause which is close to his heart.

Lee Hardy has taken on the task of leading the Children's Bereavement Centre into the future, and brings with him a wealth of experience in the fundraising and charity sector.

The Newark-based charity helps around 1,500 children each year, providing free grief support to young people and their families following the death or terminal diagnosis of a loved one.

An army veteran, Lee has worked in the charity sector for the past five years, supporting various causes in that time and most recently as head of fundraising and communications with the Leicestershire-based homeless community charity Falcon Support Services.

On his decision to join the Children’s Bereavement Centre, he said: “When I was young, I lost my dad and there wasn’t really any service like this which could help my family.

“I wasn’t particularly looking for a job, but when I saw the opportunity to work with a charity that could help ensure other children have a better experience than we did, I jumped.

“It was just a great opportunity to lead a fantastic charity, and to join a cause close to my heart.”

Lee takes over from outgoing chief executive Kate Baxter, who is taking retirement after leading the charity for the past decade.

Kate was involved in the hiring of her successor and said Lee’s “wealth of experience” was one of the key factors in him getting the job.

“It is difficult to say goodbye, but I will always remain connected to this charity in one way or another,” she said.

“It’s the right time for me, and I think this is a really exciting opportunity for the charity too.

Lee joins at an exciting time for the charity, with numerous fundraising events planned throughout 2026, including a special ‘Music at the Movies’ concert, Moulin Rouge themed ball, and the ever-popular Newark Dragon Boat Festival, to name a few.

Looking ahead, Lee said: “This is a charity which has been around for over 20 years now, and it’s only continued to grow.

“But these are unprecedented times in terms of the challenges which charities face. Need is increasing, but running costs are a lot higher too.

“I’m hoping we can find new and innovative ways of engaging with our supporters and building on the fantastic relationships we have.

“We just need to look at how we strengthen those ties, but also move into new areas, not just in terms of fundraising, but meeting needs further across the county.

He added: “There will be some adjustment as I learn more about the services we deliver and the impact we have.

“But I’m looking forward to get going, and I’m excited to find out more about the amazing work we do.”

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