PRESS RELEASE

After almost 20 years at Prisoners Abroad, Pauline Crowe OBE will retire from her role as Chief Executive in May 2023.

Pauline has led the organisation through two decades of achievement and challenges, remaining a steadfast figurehead for staff, partners, service users, volunteers, and supporters alike. Joining the organisation in 2003, Pauline brought a fresh new approach to the charity, and in 2007 the important work of Prisoners Abroad was honoured through the award of an OBE to Pauline, in recognition of her leadership of the organisation’s vital work. Along with other individuals receiving honours, Pauline was invited to Buckingham Palace for the investiture and received her OBE from Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II.

Pauline remembers - “Her Majesty was interested to learn how many of her citizens were in prison overseas and asked questions about how Prisoners Abroad helps them.  I was most honoured to have an opportunity to chat to some of the other people who had achieved some remarkable things and it was a pleasure to meet and speak to our monarch.”

Pauline is a well-respected and valued partner within the criminal justice sector, having worked alongside many important organisations and institutions during her time as Chief Executive. She has demonstrated unswerving commitment to the lives of those affected by overseas imprisonment – prisoners, family members and those returning to the UK after a sentence.

You will notice that I am retiring from my job as Chief Executive – but not from my role as committed supporter for Prisoners Abroad’s work. I will continue to maintain my interest and enthusiasm for a cause that has been part of my life since I first encountered Prisoners Abroad back in 2001.

Deputy Chief Executive Zeta MacDonald said: “It is with great sadness that we will be saying goodbye to Pauline next year, but her legacy will live on in many ways running through the organisation and we look forward to the next chapter in Prisoners Abroad’s future.”

Pauline’s retirement comes a year after the death of Prisoners Abroad founder Joe Parham who remained a continued supporter of the organisation throughout her life.

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The Board has appointed a panel of trustees to oversee the recruitment of Pauline’s successor, which has now commenced.