Meet Hannah, our new CEO

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We’re pleased to welcome Hannah Harniess as the new Chief Executive Officer of Adapt (NE).

Hannah joined us in October 2025, following the retirement of our long-standing Director, Liz Prudhoe. Liz has skilfully led the organisation for many years, and we’re incredibly grateful for her leadership.

Hannah brings over 20 years of experience across health, care, and the voluntary sector. She is a registered physiotherapist with a background in youth and community work and has held a range of leadership roles in community interest companies, charities and the NHS. Most recently, she was Director of Allied Health Professionals for North East London, leading over 3,500 clinicians across a large and diverse health system. Hannah is passionate about inclusion, community-led change, and making services work better for the people who use them.

Q&A with Hannah

What brought you to Adapt (NE)?

My family and I relocated to Northumberland a few months ago and I feel incredibly grateful to have found a role within such an established and values-driven community charity. I’ve always been drawn to organisations that are rooted in their communities, driving change from the ground up. Adapt (NE) has a strong track record of doing just that, quietly and consistently making a difference. This felt like a natural next step and a real opportunity to contribute to something meaningful in my new community in the North East.

What lessons or experiences from your past roles will you bring to this one?

I’ve worked in a mix of settings from small charities and non-profits to large NHS organisations and systems. Whilst I’ve done leadership training and spent time on the technical side of the job, I’ve mainly learned that relationships, kindness and collaboration are everything. Whether it’s co-designing services with communities or navigating complex change, listening well and building trust are key.

How do you see charities like Adapt (NE) making a difference right now?

Charities are often the first to spot when people are falling through the cracks, to understand why and to know what is needed. We’re close to our communities and can respond in ways that are flexible, creative, and human, which is even more important now than ever. The flexibility and creativity of the third sector is something that has consistently pulled me back into the sector over the years. There’s no doubt that the current context is tough for so many people, for charities and our public organisations, but I am encouraged by the shift of focus to communities and place-based working. It is essential that charities like Adapt (NE) are involved from the get-go in developing new neighbourhood health and care models.

What are your priorities for the first few months?

Listening and learning. I want to understand what matters most to the people who make Adapt (NE) what it is- staff, volunteers, trustees, and the people we support. I’ll also be working with the board to look at our strategy and how we can build on the strong foundations already in place to look and plan ahead for our future.

What opportunities or challenges do you see ahead?

There’s no doubt that the funding environment is tough, and demand for support is growing. But I also see opportunities to strengthen partnerships, collaborate with the other excellent organisations working across the region, explore new ways of working, and keep championing the voices of differently abled people and those in our community facing hardship, disadvantage or exclusion.

What is one thing people might be surprised to learn about you?

Hmmm, I always find these questions quite hard as I don’t have any exciting hobbies or unusual facts! I am constantly inspired by people who do brilliant physical activity challenges like cold water swimming or ultra marathons, but I must admit I haven’t quite managed either of those yet. I have bought a swim float and all the gear to get in the river though – so you might see me in the Tyne when the weather is warmer (and feel free to challenge me if I am not!).

What do you enjoy doing outside of work?

I love being outdoors, walking and exploring the amazing Northumbrian landscapes with my family. I’m not sure you can beat a bracing walk along the North East coastline. The walks are even better if they can finish at a cosy pub,  and we’ve found some favourites already. I also love baking and having a busy house, so the door is always open for a cuppa, cake and a chat!

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AGM 2025 – thanks for joining us!

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Adapt (NE) Annual Report 2024-25

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Our latest Annual Report is now available, with highlights of our work across all of our projects here at Adapt (NE) during 2024-25.

Our Chair, Lorraine Hershon says, “The context in which charities are operating continues to be challenging in terms of finances and demand for services. Despite this, Adapt (NE) continues to deliver for local communities, acting responsively and innovatively to changes and challenges we have faced.

“During 2024/25 it has been encouraging to see our Social Prescribing offer develop, supporting more people to thrive, in a holistic and person-centred way. We have been delighted to secure the Advocacy contract for Northumberland and our skilled team of Advocates are working to support people to express their views, make informed choices, and secure their rights within health and care services. Healthwatch Northumberland has
continued to play a significant role in championing local voice and influencing NHS care services.

“Our partnerships continue to thrive, including our collaboration with EveryTurn on mental health outreach and a joint initiative with the Good Life Collaborative on independent travel training.

“Whilst we are not complacent, we remain deeply proud of the range of services we are able to deliver to communities in Northumberland and across the North East, as part of our mission to create more inclusion for people in the region. On behalf of the board, I pass particular thanks to Liz as she moves on from her role as Director, and we welcome Hannah as new CEO. Finally, thanks to the teams who deliver the work and who make our organisation what it is.”

Read more in our Annual Report 2024-25.

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NEW: Adapt Community Warm Space

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Our new Community Warm Space opens at our site on Burn Lane in Hexham next month.

We’re pleased to offer a warm welcome to anyone who would like a hot drink or a snack, in a friendly and supportive environment.

The Warm Space will be open Tuesdays, Wednesdays and Thursdays, between 10.00am and 1.00pm, starting 2 December 2025.

The Warm Space is free to access; donations are welcome.

Information and signposting to support services will be on offer, as will activities and sessions.

Dogs are welcome and you can charge your phone or device whilst you’re here.

If you can donate any board games or other resources, or have any suggestions as to what you’d like to see on offer at the Warm Space, please get in touch.

For more information please call 01434 600599.

Visit Northumberland County Council’s website for details of Warm Spaces across Northumberland

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Adapt (NE) AGM 2025

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We’d love you to join us at our AGM 2025, taking place on Thursday 4 December, 11am – 1pm, at our offices here on Burn Lane in Hexham.

Come along and hear about our work over the past year, what we’ve achieved, and how we’ve made a difference to communities across the region.

We’ll have updates from all of our projects including Healthwatch Northumberland, Travelling with Confidence, Advocacy and Social Prescribing.

Plus, meet our new Chief Executive Hannah, and find out what she has planned for the next 12 months here at Adapt (NE)!

Tea and coffee will be available from 11.00am with the meeting starting at 11.30am. A light lunch will be served at 12.15pm; please let us know of any dietary requirements.

Book your free place online, or give us a call on 01434 600599 (option 1).

This event has now passed.

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Carers Rights Day 2025

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Carers Rights Day takes place on 20 November this year. The theme is ‘know your rights, use your rights’.

If you look after someone, find out more about your rights as a carer, and what support is available in Northumberland at the Carers Rights Day event at Berwick Leisure Centre, 1.30pm – 4.00pm on Thursday 20 November.

Dozens of organisations and service providers will be there ready to chat to you about what is on offer to unpaid carers across the county and provide information on knowing your rights.

Just some of the organisations include Northumberland County Council, Mind, Northumberland Recovery College, Healthwatch Northumberland, Macmillan, Brainbox, Age UK Northumberland, Escape Family Support, and Well Up North.

For more details on carers rights contact the Carers Northumberland team who can help you find the information and support you need.

 

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Director Liz retires

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Our Director, Liz Prudhoe, recently retired after 28 years with Adapt (NE). During her time at the helm, Liz oversaw many changes and expansions at the organisation and won Best Social Enterprise in the North East at the Woman of the Year Awards in 2012. Providing oversight and leadership across all of Adapt’s projects – including Healthwatch Northumberland, advocacy and transport – Liz has been an inspirational and supportive presence for staff, volunteers, and partners alike, always championing the values of inclusion and community that define Adapt (NE).

Everyone here at Adapt (NE) wishes Liz the very best for her retirement, and we know she’s looking forward to some much deserved downtime.

We will be introducing you to our new Chief Executive Hannah very soon – so watch this space!

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BT Connected Together: Support with the Digital Switchover

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Connected Together: Support with the Digital Switchover

Landlines are changing and the UK’s telephone network is going digital. These changes will affect everyone who has a landline they’d like to keep using. We understand that change can feel overwhelming. With a little support and reassurance, we’re here to help you understand what is happening and ensure you and your loved ones stay connected without disruption. That’s why we’re proud to support BT’s Connected Together initiative, offering the tools, guidance and confidence to support you and your loved ones through the switch.

What’s happening?

This is a once-in-a-generation, industry-wide upgrade to future-proof the UK’s landlines.

The analogue network that most home phones work on today is no longer fit for purpose and can’t keep up with the demands of modern life. That outdated network will be switched off for all landline providers in January 2027. BT’s new home phone service is called Digital Voice.

The landline is not going away, and for most, the switch is simple. No one will be left disconnected.

Here are a few key points to be aware of:

  • The switch won’t cost you a penny
  • Phone numbers won’t change
  • Over 99% of existing handsets are compatible with Digital Voice
  • Benefit from free and helpful calling features such as 3 Way Calling, Voicemail and Call Protect to help block scam calls and notify you of any suspected nuisance calls
  • For those that may need extra support, BT offers free engineer visits to make sure everything is set up correctly and working perfectly. Just make sure to confirm or book the appointment when they get in touch. They’ll take care of the rest.
  • Worried about power cuts? Don’t worry. BT provides back up power solutions meaning you can still make and receive calls during outages, and it’s free for those who need it most.
  • If you don’t have broadband, BT will provide a dedicated landline service allowing you to use your landline in the same way you do today. No new equipment is needed, and you won’t require a home visit from an engineer.

We know that changes like this can raise questions or cause concern. Especially if you or a loved one uses a landline for safety, independence or day-to-day connections.

To make things easier, BT has put together a Conversation Starter Pack – a straightforward, practical guide designed to help you talk with a friend or family member about what the switch means and how you can support them. Whether it’s a quick phone call or a relaxed chat over a cup of tea, starting the conversation early can really make a difference.

By sharing this information with others, you can help make sure more people feel informed, reassured and ready for the change.

What you can do

  • Download the Conversation Starter Pack on BT’s Connected Together website for helpful advice on how to talk about the switch
  • If you, or someone you know has additional needs and needs extra support making the switch, contact the landline provider. For BT customers they can register via webform on the Connected Together website or by calling the Customer Care team.
  • Talk to a friend, neighbour or family member who might benefit from early support

Start the conversation today.

Find out more at the website or call 0330 1234 150.

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New vacancy: Part-time Minibus Driver

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We’re looking for a friendly and flexible part-time Minibus Driver to help deliver our community transport service across the region.

Hours: 10-15 per week

Pay: £12.21 per hour

Requirements

  • Category D1 clean driving licence enabling you to drive minibuses
  • At least two years of previous driving experience
  • Good communication skills
  • Honesty and reliability
  • Positive attitude
  • An existing enhanced DBS check or willingness to undertake one – paid for by Adapt (NE).

To apply, please complete the application form and GDPR consent form below and return to: generaloffice@adapt-tynedale.org.uk or post to: C Loughlin, Adapt (NE), Burn Lane, Hexham NE46 3HN.

The deadline for applications is 31 October 2025.

Minibus Driver Application Form

GDPR Consent Form

If you would like an informal chat about the role or have any questions please call us on 01434 600599 (option 1).

This vacancy has now closed.

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Cafe @ Burn Lane pop-up sessions

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It is with great regret that we have now permanently closed our community cafe, Cafe @ Burn Lane.

This decision was not easy, however, following the resignation of our Chef to embark on a new opportunity we were unable to recruit a suitable replacement.

In addition, over the past 18 months, like many other cafes, we have faced rising food and utility costs which have made it difficult to maintain our prices at the level we would have liked.

Since the opening of our café back in 2018, we have strived to create a welcoming and inclusive space for everyone in the community. We thank all of our customers for your support and loyalty over the years. We are providing some special pop-up afternoon tea and breakfast sessions over the next two months as a way of saying thank you and goodbye.

Afternoon tea

For just £5 you can enjoy afternoon tea in the cafe. This is available on Thursday afternoons between 2pm and 4pm on the following dates:

11, 18, 25 September

2, 9, 16 October

Please BOOK A SPACE for afternoon tea in advance by calling 01434 600599 (option 1) or emailing: generaloffice@adapt-tynedale.org.uk

Breakfast

At our breakfast sessions you can enjoy a bacon or sausage sandwich roll (vegetarian sausage available) plus tea or coffee for £5.

Breakfast is available from 9am to 11.30am on the following Fridays:

12, 19, 26 September

3, 10, 17 October

There is no need to book for breakfast, just come along on your preferred date/s.

 

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