Vicky Fallon has become Refuge’s new director of fundraising, communications and policy. She has joined from Save the Children, where she spent almost 20 years and held a series of fundraising and marketing roles which culminated in becoming director of public income and engagement.
In a post on LinkedIn, she said: “Saying goodbye to Save the Children UK after nearly 19 years wasn’t easy. I’ve been incredibly lucky to work with brilliant people doing such vital work - but I’m excited about what’s ahead.”
She has replaced Ikram Dahman, who had filled the role on an interim basis since Louise Firth left Refuge in July 2024 to join Ronald McDonald House Charities UK as director of fundraising, marketing and communications.
Fallon started on 6 October and reports to Refuge chief executive Gemma Sherrington.
She is responsible for a team of around 45 people and expected to raise at least £8m a year. Her initial priorities include meeting domestic abuse survivors and hearing their experiences, as well as working with Refuge’s senior leadership team on the development of a new strategy for the charity.
Fallon is also working on Refuge’s partnership with Omaze, which runs house prize draws, that will raise a guaranteed £1m to expand Refuge’s safe housing.
She told In.Comms: “This funding could enable us to buy three homes and provide the specialist support needed for women and children escaping abuse, helping up to 60 families rebuild their lives over the next five years – something we’re incredibly excited about. I care deeply about creating a world where domestic abuse and violence against women and girls are never tolerated.”
She added: “I’m honoured to join Refuge at such a critical time in this vital work and I’m excited about working with such a dedicated team to grow income, increase awareness and drive change.”