Chronic Pain Ireland Wins Carmichael Good Governance Award 2025

Chronic Pain Ireland (CPI) is delighted to announce that we won the Carmichael Good Governance Award for our annual report for category one organisations with a turnover of less than €100,000. Now in its 10th year, the Carmichael Good Governance Awards recognises and celebrates excellence in governance, transparency, and accountability across Ireland’s non-profit sector. Entries are robustly analysed and assessed in respect of financial reporting, annual report quality, adherence to governance best practices, and clear communication of mission and impact. This year’s award specifically commended Chronic Pain Ireland for our “clarity, transparency and depth with a highly accomplished, thoughtfully constructed report” reflecting our commitment to clear reporting, ethical practice, and keeping the lived experience of chronic pain at the centre of everything we do.

Winning this award for the second time in a row demonstrates that even a small organisation can deliver a big impact when guided by strong values and a commitment to transparency. It inspires us to continue building a stronger, more equitable landscape for everyone living with chronic pain in Ireland.

Christina Donnelly, Executive Director, Chronic Pain Ireland shared this reflection on the achievement:

“We are deeply honoured to receive the Carmichael Good Governance Award for the second year in a row. Good governance is core to how we operate and how we support people living with chronic pain. Good governance is not just a checkbox, it’ forms the backbone of trust and this requires constant vigilance. This award is a powerful endorsement of our commitment to transparency, accountability, and ethical leadership. It reflects the dedication of our small and passionate staff, our trustees, volunteers, members, funders, fundraisers, donors and partners. Their belief in our mission drives everything we do. We are truly grateful to everyone who supports Chronic Pain Ireland and helps sustain our work for people living with chronic pain across the country.”

The 2025 awards ceremony was an inspiring evening, bringing together non-profit leaders, sector partners, and governance advocates for networking and reflection. Diarmaid O’Corrbuí , CEO of Carmichael, delivered the opening address and gave an overview of the awards, it’s history and continued growth. Rosemary Keogh CEO of Chartered Accountants Ireland and Fintan O’Toole, renowned journalist highlighted the importance of integrity, public trust, and strong governance across the sector.

Chronic Pain Ireland warmly acknowledges:

• Carmichael and the Good Governance Awards judging panel, as well as the sponsors who support the initiative, for their continued contribution to strengthening the non profit sector

• Our team, board of trustees, volunteers, and all stakeholders who contribute to the delivery of our services

• Our members, whose lived experience shapes our work

• Pobal, our sole core funder through the Scheme to Support National Organisations (SSNO), a programme that provides essential multi-annual funding to non-profits delivering nationwide services. This core funding is vital to CPI’s ability to operate, plan sustainably, and uphold strong governance standards.
• Sponsorship via the Hospital Saturday Fund, whose ongoing support helps us deliver vital support services to people living with chronic pain

• Our fundraisers, donors, and community supporters, whose generosity ensures our programmes reach those who need them

• Our partners and collaborators across health, research, employment, and community sectors

We also extend our congratulations to all nominees and winners across every category.

Chronic Pain Ireland celebrates winning the Carmichael Good Governance Award 2025, recognising clarity, transparency, and ethical leadership in the non-profit sector.

Winners of the Carmichael Good Governance Awards 2025, recognised for transparency, accountability, and ethical leadership across Ireland’s non-profit sector.