Head of Service Delivery retires after 12 years of Service
Published on 01 April 2026 11:19 AM
Denise McClure Retires After 12 Years of Transformational Leadership at Age UK Sheffield
After more than a decade of dedicated service, Denise McClure, Head of Service Delivery at Age UK Sheffield, has announced her retirement.
Joining the organisation 12 years ago, Denise quickly became a driving force behind the development and delivery of services supporting older people across Sheffield. During her tenure, demand for services grew significantly, alongside increasing complexity in the needs of the people supported. Under her leadership, the charity adapted and expanded, ensuring that support remained accessible, responsive, and person-centred.
Denise’s commitment to high standards became a defining feature of her work. Known for championing “quality standards,” she ensured that services consistently met the needs of some of the city’s most vulnerable residents.
Impact highlights from Denise’s leadership include:
- Supporting thousands of older people annually across Sheffield
- Securing substantial financial gains for older residents through advice and support
- Expanding services to respond to rising demand and complexity
- Strengthening a dedicated workforce of staff and volunteers
- Delivering interventions that reduce loneliness, improve wellbeing, and prevent crises
Reflecting on her time, Denise described working for the charity as “a privilege,” highlighting the importance of small but meaningful moments, from listening to someone’s story to restoring confidence through a home visit.
She also paid tribute to colleagues and volunteers, recognising their resilience, compassion, and professionalism in delivering emotionally demanding work.
Denise leaves with a strong sense of pride in what has been achieved and confidence in the future of the organisation. She expressed her hope that Age UK Sheffield will continue to “fight for dignity, challenge assumptions about ageing, and ensure older people are valued for who they are.”
Although retiring from her role, Denise will remain connected to the charity, continuing to support its mission in a smaller capacity.
Her legacy is one of compassion, leadership, and lasting impact, ensuring that older people across Sheffield feel seen, heard, and supported.