Patrick Tomlinson

Patrick brings nearly four decades of experience , supporting professionals, leaders, and organisations to build services where children and young people can truly thrive. His work is grounded in the belief that the development of people, systems, and culture is key to achieving meaningful, lasting outcomes. He champions approaches that are both relational and strategic, supporting sustainable change at every level.

Patrick began his career in 1985 as a therapeutic residential care worker and has since held a range of leadership roles, including team leader, senior manager, director, CEO, consultant, and mentor. This rare breadth of lived and professional experience gives him a unique ability to help organisations align purpose, practice, and performance.

In 2008, he founded Patrick Tomlinson Associates, providing leadership and organisational development services both in the UK and internationally, including in Australia, Japan, Ireland, the USA, India, and Portugal. Patrick has co-created 12 therapeutic models across five countries, always prioritising co-creation over replication to ensure cultural relevance, team ownership, and long-term impact. Many of these models have gone on to receive national and international recognition.

At Lighthouse, Patrick plays a central role in developing therapeutic models, embedding trauma-informed practice, and overseeing our strategic intervention services. He works closely with leadership teams to strengthen culture, guide improvement, and ensure that children receive care that is consistent, compassionate, and grounded in best practice.

Patrick’s approach is reflective, strengths-based, and values-led. Known for his integrity, thoughtfulness, and ability to bring out the best in others, he combines emotional insight with strategic clarity. His work has been described as “balancing the business of care with the care of the business”—and his influence continues to shape some of the most impactful therapeutic care models in the sector today.