A charity which delivers lifeline shopping supplies to older people across Renfrewshire and East Renfrewshire has named its new chief executive.

Rosie McLuskie will take charge at Food Train on 1st April, succeeding Michelle Carruthers, who has led the organisation for 21 years.

Rosie has already spent time meeting the team, including regional manager Fiona Lochrin.

Formerly Scotland director for We Are With You – which supports people experiencing issues with drugs, alcohol or mental health – Rosie brings with her a deep-rooted background in health and social care, which lies at the core of her new role.

Food Train works with older people across Renfrewshire and East Renfrewshire, providing shopping and befriending services to ensure they can lead healthy, independent lives.

Rosie said: “I cannot wait to get started at Food Train.

“This is a charity which not only improves lives, but saves them – ensuring older people not only get the groceries they need to eat well at home, but the company they need to live well too. The health of far too many people suffer tragically as a result of malnutrition and loneliness. Food Train and its tremendous volunteers stop both.

“I am determined that this charity will continue its great work in not just supporting our members, but in being a voice for them too – to ensure their opinions and experiences are heard, as well as their needs met.”

Michelle, who led the charity’s launch in the region, leaves her post this week.

Food Train chair Alan Dalziel said: “We are delighted to appoint Rosie to the CEO role as her experience, determination and leadership qualities are exactly what the charity needs to serve the best interests of our members, volunteers and staff going forward.

“We also express our heartfelt gratitude to Michelle for her outstanding leadership over so many years and wish her the very best for the next chapter in her life.”

Anyone interested in finding out more about volunteering with Food Train can go to www.thefoodtrain.co.uk.

Headline Photo: New Food Train chief executive Rosie McLuskie, front left, with Michelle Carruthers, front right, and the charity’s senior management team

By Ricky Kelly

Main writer for Renfrewshire News

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