NHS Charities Together appoints new Director of Development

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16 March 2026

NHS Charities Together has appointed Ben Welch as Director of Development, bringing more than 20 years’ experience of growing income, partnerships and impact across the charity sector. In this new role, Ben will lead work to grow philanthropic support for the NHS and strengthen the collective impact of NHS charities across the UK.

Ben spent two decades at Macmillan Cancer Support, where he progressed from frontline fundraising roles into senior leadership positions at regional and national level. During that time, he became Macmillan’s first Director of Innovation and later its first Director of Strategy, building both functions from the ground up and helping to drive significant growth in income and reach.

Commenting on his appointment, Ben said:

“I’m incredibly excited to be joining such a talented and ambitious team at NHS Charities Together. The healthcare landscape is evolving, bringing both challenges and opportunities to do things differently, and I’m looking forward to helping lead our efforts as we navigate these pivotal changes. Together with our members, I’m confident we will build a bright and impactful future. I can’t wait to get started!”

With a strong track record of building partnerships that deliver meaningful outcomes, Ben led the creation of Macmillan’s landmark partnership with Boots, which brought cancer information and support to high streets across the UK while raising more than £20 million for the charity.

Ellie Orton OBE, CEO of NHS Charities Together, said:

“Ben brings extensive experience in growing income, driving innovation and building powerful partnerships. This will be invaluable as we explore new approaches to unlock the potential of philanthropy and the wider NHS charity sector to drive change across healthcare. We’re really excited about the energy and perspective he will add as we work with members to strengthen the role of NHS charities and grow our collective impact across the UK.”

Ben will join NHS Charities Together at the end of March. As he starts in the role, he will spend time getting to know the organisation and the wider NHS charities community.