Karen Robson joined The Wallich as CEO in September 2024.
She is responsible for leading the organisation and ensuring that our service users and residents receive the very best support from all services across Wales.
Karen’s career has spanned a variety of areas in the social justice arena, including disability, mental health, widening access to higher education and international development.
As a senior leader in the University sector and third sector, she is experienced at working collaboratively with stakeholders and across the political spectrum to achieve policy and practice change.
“My passion is social justice. Life can deal us rubbish cards, but with the right support from those who genuinely care, things can turn around and life can be different.
Many of us take having a home for granted, but for too many that isn’t their reality. We at The Wallich are here to do something about that! It’s in our DNA. And I couldn’t be more delighted to be leading this amazing organisation.”
Originally from the North-east of England, Karen has lived and worked in Wales for 27 years.
She has volunteered with many charities and now heads the leading charity in Wales for preventing and tackling homelessness.
Lived experience is key to the success and effectiveness of The Wallich. Karen will be working closely with our Shadow Board (volunteers) and the 32% of staff who have first-hand experience of homelessness, to ensure that our services evolve to meet the needs of those at risk of homelessness.