Jenny Cooper joined as a trainee adviser in 1988 and has filled numerous roles within the charity since, having spent time collating consumer statistics for the local Trading Standards Office and more recently as a money advice worker.
Colleagues and fellow volunteers held a retirement party on Thursday afternoon to honour Jenny’s contribution to DAGCAS over more than three decades.
DAGCAS’s communication and volunteer manager Katie Dyet said: “Jenny will be missed by all her colleagues and leaves a huge gap both from a business and personal perspective.
“She has a very gentle way with clients and colleagues alike and welcomed the opportunity to pass on her knowledge to new trainees in the form of a minder.”
Commenting on her experience working with the charity, Jenny said it had been “stimulating, challenging, satisfying and thoroughly enjoyable.”
She added: “It can be challenging to help and advise clients who may feel anger, confusion, distress and sometimes panic when they contact CAB initially. Once clients realise we are there to help and we are able to explain the options available to them their relief is evident. Clients always decide which option to pursue and this in turn helps them to feel in control.
“It’s very satisfying as an adviser when a client, after seeking our help, feels more able to cope with any future problems he or she may encounter.
“There is a great team spirit and camaraderie among the volunteers and staff of DAGCAS.”
Asked of her favourite aspect of the role, she replied: “It has to be helping clients when they are perhaps feeling vulnerable. I eventually specialised in debt advice and found negotiating with creditors etc. fascinating.
“Learning new skills and enjoying the company of the staff at DAGCAS comes a very close second though.”
Due to her age, the ongoing coronavirus pandemic has played a “very large part” in Jenny’s decision to retire, she said, adding: “I prefer face to face interaction with clients and this is not really possible at present.”
Dwelling on retirement plans, she said: “I’ve not thought of what I might do next, apart from staying healthy and free from this awful virus.
“I shall certainly have more time for my hobbies which include walking, piano playing, genealogy, gardening, reading and seeing family and friends.”
