Pioneering Care Partnership chief executive Carol Gaskarth has been announced as a finalist for Charity Leader of the Year at the North East Charity Awards 2025, recognising her outstanding leadership and dedication to the voluntary sector.
Carol’s strategic vision, unwavering commitment, and compassionate leadership have not only transformed PCP but also made a profound impact across communities in County Durham, Tees Valley and Sunderland.
Since taking the helm in 2013, Carol has led PCP through remarkable growth.
The organisation now supports over 134,000 individuals and 500 businesses annually, up from just 9,000 people when she began.
Under her leadership, PCP’s income has increased by 440%, and its workforce has expanded to include over 140 staff and 250 volunteers.
Carol has fostered a culture rooted in trust, ambition, professionalism and inclusion, ensuring PCP’s mission – health, wellbeing, and learning for all – extends to both service users and staff.
Today, 55% of the team identify as disabled or living with long-term health conditions, and 24% are working carers, reflecting PCP’s commitment to accessibility and support.
Her leadership has also earned PCP significant external recognition, including the Queen’s Award for Voluntary Service, Investors in People Gold, and Disability Confident Leader status.
Heather Brewster, chair of PCP, said: “It’s a great privilege to celebrate Carol’s impact – not only on PCP but on the thousands of individuals who have benefited from her leadership.
“Her ability to unite people around shared goals and drive forward innovative projects has made her a true voice for the sector.
“Carol is an unsung hero whose work deserves to be applauded.”
Carol added: “I was thrilled to be nominated by colleagues and trustees, and surprised to be named a finalist alongside such inspiring charity leaders.
“For me, leadership is never a solo journey, it’s about empowering others and working together to achieve shared goals.
“I’m incredibly proud of the PCP team and everything we’ve accomplished together.
“The awards night will be a fantastic celebration of the incredible work happening across the region, and I wish all finalists the very best of luck.”
The awards night will take place on Thursday, September 11, at The Fed in Gateshead.