Sunflowers Suicide Support has appointed Mary Hutton CBE to its board of trustees, where she will serve as treasurer.
Mary brings extensive leadership and financial expertise gained through more than 36 years in the NHS. Most recently, Mary served as Chief Executive of NHS Gloucestershire Integrated Care Board.
Mary’s career has spanned senior roles in commissioning, performance, and financial management across a wide range of health and care systems.
Beyond her professional career, Mary has a long-standing and deeply held commitment to the voluntary and community sector. She is particularly passionate about supporting young people, youth services, and the development of resilient communities. This commitment has led her to champion volunteering, community participation, and preventative approaches to wellbeing throughout her career.
Mary’s understanding of how statutory services, community organisations and volunteers work together to support people at times of vulnerability strongly aligns with Sunflowers Suicide Support’s mission. Her experience and values will help strengthen the charity’s governance, sustainability, and community-focused approach as it continues to support individuals and families affected by suicide.
In recognition of her outstanding contribution to public service, in 2025, Mary was awarded a Commander of the Order of the British Empire (CBE) for services to the NHS and to community wellbeing.
Mary Hutton CBE, said: “I am really looking forward to working with the Sunflowers team. I have been genuinely impressed by the work they do and by the depth of commitment shown by both the staff and the Trustees. I feel strongly that people affected by suicide need specialist support, and Sunflowers offers a truly compassionate and thoughtful approach. I am looking forward to learning more about the work and fully recognise the significant need for these services within the community.”
Abbie Warren, Chief Executive Officer of Sunflowers Suicide Support welcomed the appointment: “We are really pleased to welcome Mary to our Board of Trustees. Her career reflects not only exceptional leadership and financial expertise, but also a genuine and sustained commitment to community wellbeing and the voluntary sector. As a locally rooted Gloucestershire charity, it is a privilege to be guided by someone who understands the importance of compassionate, community-based support and partnership working. I am very much looking forward to working with Mary as she becomes part of our organisation and our team.”
