What does it mean to you to be recognised in the Birthday Honours list?
It was mind blowing to be honoured in this way. I was on leave when the letter arrived, I re-read it multiple times in case it was a scam. I love being a DWP armed forces champion as I can support and honour what our armed forces do for us while I am at work, on top of the fundraising I do in my spare time. I’m blessed that someone took the time to nominate me.
What does your role involve?
I am one of the DWP armed forces champions covering Kent. This enables me to support not only our veterans (ex-forces), but also those currently serving in the military and their families navigate the complex world of benefits, work, and support that is available to them.
Apart from receiving this Honour, what has been your proudest moment at work?
I am proud of being able to highlight some of the issues faced by our veterans to my colleagues, as well as signposting to the various support networks that are available to them. My work also complements the voluntary work I do: collecting for the Poppy Appeal, completing challenges such as the Be Military Fit Challenge, the 25km London Bridges Challenge and the Great Tommy Sleep Out.
What does it take to do your job well?
The qualities I have which helps me do my job are empathy; the ability to listen; being honest even if you are delivering bad news; tenacity to not give up even if there are obstacles in the way; and my spidey sense that enables me to pick up what they are too proud to say.
Tell us one thing we might not know about your job
My role is extremely varied. One day I can be singing with the Chelsea Pensioners, the next meeting veterans in prison and the next hobnobbing at No.10 Downing Street to celebrate Armed Forces Week with the minister of veterans affairs.