Audentior Achievement!

We are so pleased to be able to share that Debby McKinlay, our dedicated manager of the Haven, has been awarded Highly Commended Charity Worker of the Year at the Watford Borough Council Audentior Awards! Debby is an incredibly hardworking member of the team, popular with staff, volunteers and people visiting the Haven, and she often supports the work of New Hope in her own time.

Debby and her team have transformed the Haven into a really special environment - the building (home to the drop in and the Winter Shelter) is homely and peaceful, unlike the institutions many people will be used to. As soon as the door is opened, you feel welcomed and safe. Debby ensures the Haven operates smoothly, creatively and sustainably, with the kitchen using donated food from local shops and individuals to create healthy and filling meals - often the only meals someone will have in a day.

Spearheading New Hope’s work with pets, Debby has forged a strong partnership with StreetVet and New Hope is one of their trial day centres. Debby has also organised the buying of a pet friendly sleep pod so that people can access the winter shelter accommodation even with a dog (or mobility issues or PTSD). This new addition is not the first time Debby has brought innovative ideas for supporting people experiencing homelessness however, as she has developed and championed health days which bring together service users from many of Watford’s homelessness and social care providers with dedicated health and wellbeing support all on site at the central Haven location.

Congratulations, Debby!