THIS year is already shaping up to be a landmark one for Laura Hugman, who has stepped into the role of Chief Executive Officer at The Paul Sartori Foundation while also preparing to take on one of the world’s most demanding endurance events – the London Marathon.

Laura moves into the CEO position after a decade as the charity’s Clinical Lead, and following her appointment as Interim CEO in January 2026. Over the past ten years, she has played a central role in shaping and delivering compassionate care across Pembrokeshire, working closely with patients, families, staff and volunteers. Her deep understanding of clinical services, combined with a calm, people-first leadership style, brings continuity, trust and experience at a crucial time for the organisation.

In her new role, Laura is focused on building on the charity’s strong foundations while keeping its core mission firmly in sight – supporting people living with life-limiting illness. She is committed to ensuring sustainable growth while remaining true to the values that underpin the charity’s work within the community. She will continue to work closely with Chair Dave Evans and Vice-Chair Jason Tomlin.

Away from the office, Laura is also taking on a personal challenge that reflects the same determination she brings to her professional life. A relative newcomer to running, she joined The Waterfront Community Runners in 2021, initially as a way to improve her fitness. What began as a modest step has since developed into a goal she once never imagined – completing a full marathon.

Training for the London Marathon demands consistency, resilience and patience – qualities that closely mirror the care delivered every day by the Paul Sartori team. Early starts, long-distance runs and physical fatigue have all become part of the routine, but Laura remains motivated by the cause she represents and the people the charity supports.

The marathon itself – 26.2 miles of physical and mental endurance – will see thousands take to the streets, cheered on by crowds and watched by millions around the world. For Laura, it is more than a race; it is an opportunity to raise awareness of the charity’s vital work and to generate much-needed funds.

She hopes to raise around £3,600 – the equivalent of one day’s cost of providing the charity’s hospice-at-home services, helping ensure that compassionate care remains available to families across Pembrokeshire when they need it most.

As Laura steps into these dual challenges – one in the boardroom and one on the road – she does so with determination, compassion and a clear sense of purpose.

She will be cheered on every step of the way when she takes part in the marathon on Sunday (Apr 26).

To support Laura, visit her JustGiving page:
https://www.justgiving.com/page/laura-hugman-2

A PEMBROKESHIRE charity supporting vulnerable young people has received one of the highest honours in the UK for voluntary work.

Megan’s Starr Foundation, based in Milford Haven, has been awarded the King’s Award for Voluntary Service — widely regarded as the MBE for charities — in recognition of its outstanding impact in the community.

The award was formally presented during a special event held at The Dizzy Bear, the charity’s base, where much of its day-to-day work supporting young people takes place.

The ceremony brought together community leaders, dignitaries, volunteers and young people who have all played a part in the charity’s journey.

The King’s Award for Voluntary Service is the highest accolade given to local volunteer groups across the UK, recognising exceptional service and lasting benefit within communities.

Megan’s Starr Foundation was established following personal tragedy, with a mission to ensure that no young person feels alone or overlooked. Since its creation, the organisation has grown into a vital support network for young people across Pembrokeshire, offering guidance, understanding and a safe space to rebuild confidence.

Speaking at the event, representatives of the foundation said the award belonged not just to the organisation, but to everyone connected to it.

“This recognition is for every young person who has walked through our doors when they felt they had nowhere else to go,” a spokesperson said.

“It is for every parent who trusted us at their lowest moment, and for every volunteer who has given their time and compassion to support others.”

They added that while the charity was born from heartbreak, it has been driven by a determination to create something meaningful and lasting for the community.

The award presentation was attended by local dignitaries including representatives of the Lord Lieutenant and High Sheriff, who praised the foundation’s commitment to supporting young people and strengthening the community.

The Herald understands that the foundation’s work has already had a significant impact across the county, with increasing demand for its services as more young people seek support.

The setting of the ceremony — within The Dizzy Bear itself — served as a powerful reminder of the charity’s purpose, with many of those present having directly experienced its support.

For those involved, the recognition marks both a milestone and a motivation to continue.

“This is more than an award,” the spokesperson added. “It is a reminder of why we started — and why we will never stop.”

MILFORD HAVEN ROUND TABLE welcomed representatives from the Paul Sartori Foundation for an evening of discussion, awareness and community support earlier this month.

The event, held at the Lord Nelson Hotel on Wednesday (Mar 11), brought together 19 Round Table members alongside Rosie-Faye Hart, Community Relationship Officer, and Mandy Jones, Future Care Planning Officer.

Members heard an informative and engaging presentation from the charity team, focusing on the importance of planning ahead and supporting those with life-limiting illness.

Mandy Jones spoke about future care planning, encouraging early conversations and explaining key aspects such as Power of Attorney and setting out personal care wishes. She helped simplify what can often be seen as a complex and difficult subject.

Rosie-Faye Hart highlighted the vital role community fundraising plays in sustaining the charity’s work across Pembrokeshire, thanking groups such as the Round Table for their continued support.

The presentation was warmly received, with members showing strong interest in the Foundation’s work. At the end of the evening, Milford Haven Round Table made a donation of £250 to support the charity’s ongoing services.

The meeting has already led to further opportunities. Following the talk, Mandy Jones was invited by Adrian Cook, Engagement Officer at South Hook LNG, to deliver a session for staff as part of an upcoming wellbeing event.

The evening demonstrated how local organisations can work together to raise awareness, encourage important conversations, and support vital services within the community.

Groups interested in arranging a talk or supporting the charity can contact Rosie-Faye Hart on 07854 684171 or via email at [email protected]
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