A day in the life.... Debbie Lomas
Debbie is part of our services team and you'll see her on our online workshops. Behind the scenes she looks after our volunteers too. In this Q&A she kindly shares some personal thoughts including what advice she'd give her younger self if she could. Now wouldn't we all like to be able to do that!
What would you say is the most challenging part of your job?
As we are now progressing in an online world, I find my lipreading skills, as someone that is hard of hearing, have gone to pot. The technology that awaits our future, means I need to learn again to lipread/hear in a different way.
What is it that you miss most about our 'non-pandemic' workshops and why?
I miss having that face to face contact with people, and being able to physically stand or sit next to someone to have a chat and a coffee with.
If you had to describe the charity to someone in three words what words would they be and why?
Caring, friendly and a listening ear, because that’s what we are, we are a very friendly and approachable bunch.
Where have you worked before YPWD and what did you do?
I worked in Social Services for Older People with Mental Health for ten years as an Administrator completing care packages. Before that I worked in Wokingham Borough Council in Environment Services, dealing with resident's parking permits and car park tickets. I also spent time being dressed up as a hedgehog for the School Crossing Patrol Organiser!
What is the most interesting place that you have visited in the world and why?
For me it has to be Australia. Travelling for four months on a bus all around the country, it made me fall in love with the sights and the people. I climbed Uluru and that was just magical in the sunrise.
What would you say is your most treasured memory and why?
Travelling America with my parents when I was 16, driving through the cities and Las Vegas, being the satnav navigator to my Dad who did the driving.
Are you able to tell us what your favourite film or TV show or book is and why?
I love ET. I used to watch every Saturday on VHS back in the day. It’s such an emotional funny film and gets me every time. When I used to go to Granada TV rentals to get a video, I used to take it back and then reorder it for the next week!
Do you have any interests, hobbies, life experiences or skills that would surprise people?
I sang on stage at the Albert Hall with the school choir, I don’t know how I managed to get in there, as I cannot sing!
Cat or dog and why?
Both! I love my dog for the cuddles and company she gives, and my cats I have had for 19 years. I love the fact I return home to see them sleeping on my bed or meowing for attention. I think they make the house a home.
What’s you favourite phrase or saying and why?
"Live life", as that’s exactly what it means on the tin. I think there is so much out there in the world to see and experience.
If you had the chance to give your younger self a piece of advice what would that be and why?
Take chances in life, and give everything your best shot, even if it didn’t work out, at least I tried.