Dr Paul Jackson has been appointed Chair, alongside the appointment of two prominent business leaders: Aidan Flynn and Joanne McAuley, as new Trustees.
The strengthening of the Board comes at a time of remarkable momentum for Little Heroes. Over recent years, the charity has expanded its reach to support thousands of children and families receiving care at the hospital each year.
Little Heroes is embarking on its most ambitious venture to date: Little Heroes House and Haven, dedicated parent accommodation facility located on the Royal Victoria Hospital Site. The project will ensure that parents of critically ill children have a comfortable, supportive environment to sleep, rest, and stay together close to the hospital wards.
Dr Paul Jackson Appointed as Chair
Dr Jackson brings 45 years of experience as a Consultant Paediatrician at the Royal Belfast Hospital for Sick Children. Widely respected for his compassion, empathy, and unwavering dedication to patient-centred care, he also established the Regional Paediatric Rheumatology Service at Musgrave Park Hospital.
Dr Paul Jackson, Chair of Little Heroes, said:
“It is a real honour to take on the role of Chair for Little Heroes. Throughout my 45 years caring for children and young people, I have seen first-hand the difference that practical support and compassion can make to families. As we look to the future, I look forward to leading the Board in helping the charity build on its achievements and make an even greater difference to the lives of children and families across Northern Ireland.”
Joining Dr Jackson are Aidan Flynn, Managing Director at Flynn Construction, and Joanne McAuley, Partner at Clarendon Executive.
Aidan Flynn brings extensive experience in major capital projects and construction infrastructure, alongside a strong business network. His industry leadership and expertise will play a pivotal role in guiding Little Heroes through this next stage of growth.
Joanne McAuley brings extensive experience in senior leadership recruitment, organisational development, and corporate governance. Her expertise in building high-performing teams and establishing executive networks will help Little Heroes expand its strategic corporate partnerships across Northern Ireland to sustain its long-term growth.
Aidan Flynn commented:
“It is a privilege to join Little Heroes at such an exciting and transformative time. I look forward to using my industry experience and network to help deliver major future developments to support sick children and their families.”
Joanne McAuley added:
“I am excited to support Little Heroes’ vital work as the charity expands its reach and ambition. It is a fantastic team, and I look forward to contributing my experience and connections to strengthen corporate partnerships and grow the charity’s impact across Northern Ireland.”
Mary McCall, CEO of Little Heroes, said:
“We are delighted to welcome Dr Paul Jackson as Chair, alongside Aidan and Joanne as Trustees. Having worked with Paul on the board, I know the immense empathy, clinical expertise, and sound judgement he brings. As Little Heroes enters this powerful new chapter of growth, tackling major capital plans while widening our support for hospital staff and families, our board is in a fantastic position to guide the charity, drive our long-term ambitions, and inspire others to actively support our Little Heroes, their families, and the phenomenal paediatric team that cares for them.”
w5 Christmas Event
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On Friday 27 November, we’re inviting businesses across Northern Ireland to take part in The Sparkle Hour.
Santa Skydive 2026
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Ho-Ho-Host Your Own Festive Event
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'Sponsor a Sparkle' on our Little Heroes Christmas tree. Dedicate your sparkle in honour of a loved one, or share a message of love, hope, and strength for the brave children receiving care at the hospital.
50 Squats a Day in January 2027
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50 Push-ups a Day in January. Register for your free T-shirt, do 50 squats a day for 30 days and raise money for Little Heroes, the Charity for the Royal Belfast Hospital for Sick Children.
National Superhero Day for Little Heroes
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Be a Hero for Little Heroes this National Superhero Day. National Superhero Day is Wednesday 28 April and we are looking for fundraising superheroes to take part!
Belfast Marathon 2027
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Run for Little Heroes! We have official Charity Solo and Relay spaces available.
Family Memory Walk 2027
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You and your family are warmly invited to the Royal Belfast Hospital for Sick Children’s hospital/Little Heroes memory walk
Fairhead Abseil
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Join us for our third annual Fairhead Abseil as we take on one of Northern Ireland’s most breathtaking landscapes for The Royal Belfast Hospital For Sick Children.
Big Hero Hike 2027
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Reach the peak of Northern Ireland’s highest mountain to support The Royal Belfast Hospital for Sick Children.