Family support charity St Michael’s Fellowship's director Sue Pettigrew, who joined the organisation 52 years ago, is to retire.

Pettigrew has led the London based charity as director for the last 36 years and will be retiring at the end of this month.

Sue started at the charity in 1973 as a senior resident at its house for teenage mothers, and became deputy director in 1986 before taking the top role two years later.

Since she started, the charity has grown to a 37 strong team of staff, with around 40 temporary sessional staff. Services include outreach support for young parents in Lambeth, residential assessment family centres and a 17-week programme for fathers.

“It has been an honour to lead this organisation, and I want to express my gratitude for the support you’ve provided throughout the years,” said Pettigrew, who was awarded an OBE for services to children and families nine years ago.

“Working alongside our dedicated staff, trustees, professionals and loyal supporters has been a privilege.”

The charity’s chair Sally Prentice added: “To lead a charity effectively for over 30 years is a considerable achievement, and on behalf of all the trustees, managers and staff team members, past and present, I would like to wish Sue all the very best for a long and happy retirement with her family.”

Pettigrew will be replaced by Oretha Wofford, who takes the role of chief executive, said: “I am truly honoured to step into the role of Chief Executive at St Michael’s Fellowship.

“I have seen the life-changing impact of St Michael’s work with families, and it is a privilege to build on Sue Pettigrew OBE’s extraordinary legacy.”

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