Philomena Cullen to leave Irish Chaplaincy

Philomena Cullen

The Irish Chaplaincy in Britain (ICB) has announced that its Director, Philomena Cullen, is to move on after nearly four successful years at the helm of the charity.

Dr Cullen will be taking up an academic position as Director of Pastoral Studies at the Margaret Beaufort Institute in Cambridge. She leaves the chaplaincy in great shape at the end of an eventful and productive term heading up the Camden based charity, which works with some of the most vulnerable Irish emigrants in Britain.

During her time of leadership, the charity has had turnover hit record levels, there has been a steady increase in the number of vulnerable emigrants accessing the services of the charity, as well as greater volunteer involvement, and new service initiatives, like the Travellers in Prison project, have been launched.

Reflecting on her time at the ICB, Dr Cullen, who will remain at the helm until her successor is appointed in September said: “My time at the ICB has been a real privilege, and I've enjoyed every minute of working with, and for, my own community. The ICB is a real gem of a organisation, staffed by people and volunteers, who care about going the extra mile to make a positive difference in people's lives. We are now offering more support to more Irish people, which is what it's all about. It's been a difficult decision to move on, but I know that the ICB is strong and ready for the next chapter of its development and I've no doubt that I'll watch it flourish and grow in the years to come."

The recruitment process has begun with the position being advertised this week. Job packs can be downloaded from www.irishchaplaincy.org.uk and closing date for applications is 30th August 2011.