Catherine Deakin

Catherine Deakin is Overcoming MS’s Director of Fundraising and Communications, leading the charity’s fundraising, communications and digital strategy to help grow income, strengthen awareness and help more people live full, healthy lives with MS.

Catherine has worked in the charity sector for 20 years, including more than a decade in health charities. She joined Overcoming MS after holding senior leadership roles across the sector, most recently as CEO of Arachne Women’s Support and previously as Deputy CEO of Changing Faces. Across her career she has raised more than £16 million through trusts, major donors, corporates and community fundraising, and led award-winning national campaigns including the viral #VisibleHate campaign.

She was drawn to Overcoming MS because of its hopeful, evidence-based approach and its commitment to helping people feel informed, supported and empowered in their health and wellbeing. Catherine lives with a neurological condition, giving her a personal understanding of the value of trusted support and community.

Outside work, Catherine enjoys walking her dog on the coast and is also chair of governors for a local primary school.