This week, Lorna Allen, our Head of Communications & Information marked 20 years at Slough CVS (SCVS). Those of you who know SCVS, know we like to put on a spread, so this week we held a surprise lunch gathering for Lorna, to mark her special landmark anniversary.

We asked Lorna to reflect on her 20 years at SCVS and this is what she had to say:

“My journey at SCVS started a little over 20 years ago, when I spotted an advert for a part-time admin role in my local newspaper. I had spent 3 years at home, looking after my young children and this was the perfect intro back into work. I was only planning to stay 6 months but the warm welcome I received from Carmel and the team kept me there longer.

“SCVS has always been fantastic at seeking out its staff’s skills and they soon realised I really enjoyed editing and designing newsletters (and still do!). The first ones were sent out in the post to voluntary groups across Slough but were moved online as technology moved on.

“Twenty years ago, funding flowed into the voluntary sector, a lot easier than it does now. SCVS took on new projects and maintained its core services for the voluntary sector and my role became busier, with an increase in hours over time. Being a small office with few staff means that you get to do a bit of everything at some point or other, so being adaptable helps! It is the variety of work at SCVS that I love; no two days are the same and you never know what new opportunity or piece of work is going to land in your inbox (usually from Ramesh!).

“SCVS events are the best! One of my favourite memories has been organising and celebrating at the Slough Voluntary Sector Awards, the first one in 2012. It was truly inspiring to hear and be a part of recognising the work, by groups and volunteers, who want to make a difference.

“COVID-19 threw us all off course for a couple of years, and we faced so many unforeseen challenges, working from home being one of them. Getting clear immediate response and health messages out quickly into the community became essential and we worked with the voluntary sector and our partners at the Council and NHS to do this.

“Working at SCVS has had its ups and downs, but challenges and opportunities are a part of life. It’s always how we deal with them that matters and always remembering why we do it and at SCVS, it has always been to improve the lives of residents.

“I have met some extraordinary people over the years, some in the sector for much longer than myself and many of whom I have worked with, shared successes and learnt from. After 20 years, I am really proud to still be a part of Slough’s voluntary sector.”

Lorna’s SCVS colleagues share their thoughts…

“Lorna, congratulations on your 20th work anniversary with Slough CVS, what an achievement! You are a significant part of the SCVS team, and I can’t imagine the future without you. Your hard work is on display every day, and we, the voluntary and community sector of Slough, truly appreciate your dedication. Together, we celebrate and take pride in your accomplishment and your commitment to excellence.  We are so proud to have you as part of our work family.”
Ramesh Kukar, Chief Executive Officer

“Lorna is a loyal colleague, full of joy and laughter.  Lorna has always been the level-headed one, she is a good listener and advisor.  She has a luminous personality and shares a light bulb of innovative ideas that is reflected in the creativity of her work.”
Asma Aziz, Head of Capacity Building & Funding

“Lorna is a hugely respected figure within SCVS, and I admire her work, dedication and knowledge of Slough, the groups and partners we work closely with. Lorna has a real knack with people she works with, always coming up with the right answer at the right time and knowing what to say and when. She is a breath of fresh air. Lorna’s commitment to the importance of good communication is a lasting legacy with us.”
Kinder Bassi, Slough Carers Support & Wellbeing Manager

“Lorna is an extremely kind person who raises her words, not her voice. Her writing is rain that grows flowers, not thunder.”
Shahid Qazi, Wellbeing Coordinator