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Supportive Lodgings' Manager Norman retires...

Step by Step bade an emotional farewell to Norman Ashcroft, our Supportive Lodgings Manager, on his retirement in November.

Farnborough Rugby Club was the venue for a gathering of many of the people with whom Norman has worked during his six years with Step by Step, including contacts from housing associations, Social Service departments, some of the all-important SL carers, his colleagues in the office, directors of SBS and even a group from the local sandwich shop. Norman's wife, Sheila, and members of his family were also there to celebrate.

Amanda Dubarry spoke warmly of Norman's tremendous achievements. He has been responsible for organising no less than 57 years of Supportive Lodgings care, which has made a huge difference to very many vulnerable young people - most of whom are 16-17 years old - and to the carers who have taken them into their homes. Not only that, but 64% of Norman's 'clients' have made positive progress: in other words, their lives have been improved as a result of his work. Norman will be very much missed, she said.

Amanda presented Norman with a decanter and glasses (and something to put in them!) to remind him of Step by Step, and the many cards from well-wishers demonstrated the warmth and affection felt for Norman.

 ...and Barbara takes over

Step by Step is delighted to annouce the appointment of Norman's successor. She is Barbara Wolfe, a qualified social worker, psychotherapist and counsellor. Barbara, who has two daughters aged 18 and 22, was a native of Atlanta, Georgia in the United States, but has been living in the UK for the past five years.

Before coming to Step by Step, she was working as a volunteer with the Rape and Sexual Abuse Support Centre in Guildford.

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