Celebrating Alison: 30 Years of Dedication, Kindness and Care

Celebrating Alison: 30 Years of Dedication, Kindness and Care

This week, we said a very fond farewell to our Senior Operations Manager, Alison, as she begins a new chapter and looks forward to an exciting retirement. We want to take the opportunity to reflect on just how much Alison has meant to Accuro over the past three decades and thank her for everything she has bought to the charity and local families.

Alison’s journey began back in 1995, when she joined ResCU in Uttlesford as a Shared Care Coordinator. In 2002, SnoCaP in Epping Forest came together with Harlow Shared Care and in 2005 also joined with ResCU to form what we now know as Accuro. Alison helped to shape the charity through these changes and support families as services grew and evolved.

Over the years, Alison progressed to Deputy Manager, then Operations Manager, and finally Senior Operations Manager. When asked what she is most proud of during her time at Accuro, Alison speaks about the longevity of the charity and its ability to consistently support local families, even during difficult times.

She says:
“I am so proud of the trust parents place in us and that families remember Accuro even years later. Seeing a child do something you know they have never done before, and knowing it is because they feel safe in our projects, is a great feeling. I know Accuro really does make such a big difference and supports and gives time to families.”

Recently, staff and trustees came together to celebrate Alison’s retirement, and what an emotional evening it turned out to be. Alison was completely taken by surprise when former Accuro CEO Arthur Steward and his wife Kerry joined us. Arthur spoke movingly about the huge impact Alison has had over the years – not only on Accuro members and their families, but also on staff and volunteers, past and present. There were plenty of laughs, and more than a few tears, as he shared stories of her kindness, dedication, mentorship and unwavering support.

Matthew Punshon, Chair of Trustees, said:
“Alison’s contribution to Accuro over more than 30 years cannot be overstated. She has been a constant presence through periods of growth, change and challenge, always keeping families and members at the heart of everything she did. Alison’s knowledge, compassion and leadership have helped shape Accuro into the charity it is today, and her impact will be felt for many years to come. On behalf of the trustees, staff and families, I would like to thank Alison for her extraordinary dedication and wish her every happiness in her retirement.”

During her 30 plus years of service, Accuro was awarded the Queen’s Award for Voluntary Service, and Alison herself received an award from the High Sheriff of Essex for her outstanding contribution to the community. Matthew also read out heartfelt messages from parents, sharing just how much Alison’s support had meant to their families.

Alison leaves behind an incredible legacy. She has helped shape Accuro into the charity it is today, supported countless families, and guided generations of staff with warmth, patience and generosity. Her impact will be felt for many years to come.

We will miss Alison more than words can say, but we are so grateful for everything she has given to Accuro. We wish her every happiness in the years ahead and thank her, from the bottom of our hearts.