Meet the Team

We would like to introduce you to the people whose hard work and commitment ensures that Children in Hospital Ireland continues to make hospital a happier place for children.

Anna Gunning
Chief Executive Officer

I started with the organisation in 2017 having worked in the related areas of children and youth for over 30 years. I worked with the National Youth Council of Ireland to develop, implement and manage programmes and policy relating to the provision of youth work in Ireland. I worked as a freelance consultant for many years and supported organisations in programme and strategy development relating to children and young people. I also worked with Youth Advocate Programmes Ireland and managed their programmes for young people who needed additional support.
My role in Children in Hospital Ireland is to work under the direction of the Board to implement our strategic plan and to develop services and actions which promote the welfare of all children in hospital and their families. I am privileged to lead this exciting organisation with an amazing team of volunteers and staff and our partners in the children’s health area.

Elizabeth Morrin
Volunteer Manager

I joined Children in Hospital Ireland in September 2017 having discovered a passion for working with and supporting volunteers in my previous role at Dublin based non-profit Solas Project. I am originally from New York and am so happy to call Ireland home. I have a Masters in International Peace Studies from Trinity College Dublin, where I focused on children’s rights. Children in Hospital Ireland allows me to work closely with people and to support a charity driven by the rights of children and the real needs of families. The best part of my work however is meeting each of our unique and incredible volunteers.

Emma Barrett
Volunteer Co-ordinator

I have more than 25 years’ experience working in various management roles in both the corporate and charity sector. I spent 5 years working as Corporate Fundraiser for the Temple Street Foundation and found these years the most rewarding of my career. I am a volunteer with the youth organisation Foróige and enjoy hobbies such swimming, yoga, reading books and being outdoors.

Fiachra Brennan
Policy Officer

I joined in Children in Hospital Ireland (CIH) in August 2021. My background is in international development, spending several years supporting marginalised groups in the Global South. Working for CIH is an exciting new challenge with an inspirational organisation. My role involves working to develop our policy and advocacy work to fight for the rights and welfare of sick children and their families.

Julia Dressler
Office Administrator

I started with the organisation in 2018 and I am delighted to be part of the team. I hold a Social worker degree and have a background in elderly care services and have experience working with lovely children with special needs and disabilities. Having worked for many years as an Administrator for different businesses, I’m keen to bring my expertise and support our team, Board members and the amazing volunteers of Children in Hospital Ireland. In my free time I do yoga, Pilates and walk in the nature with my family and I regularly organise dance or mindfulness events for families with babies and young children.