We are proud to welcome a second Operations Manager to our team. Karen Loughrill has joined us to lead our Day Opportunities for adults and children with a learning disability and work closely alongside fellow Operations Manager, Tim Birchley, who is responsible for regulated care, domiciliary, community and supported living. We spoke to Karen to get an insight into her background and what she has planned for her new role.
So Karen, what experience do you have?
Previously, I worked for 19 years at MCCH, a charity which supports people with learning disabilities, autism and mental health needs across London and the South-East. I started my career there as a Support Worker and went on to become a Senior Support Worker and then Registered Manager. My time at MCCH ended as the Senior Operations Manager where I was responsible for accommodation based services, both supported living and registered. During my time at MCCH I worked in Sutton and Kent.
What drew you to East Kent Mencap?
East Kent Mencap challenge things, they aren’t scared to stand up and question wrong ways of thinking. I saw that East Kent Mencap staged a hustings and invited candidates from the main political parties for tough questioning. That, to me, not only shows the promotion of people’s rights, which is so important, but the action of giving people with a learning disability that platform to be heard and I want to be a part of that.
What are you most looking forward to?
I can’t wait to get involved in developing the new Community Resource Contract that East Kent Mencap won earlier this year as it’s going to be a new challenge for me. It’s great to see the fantastic range of activities people can get involved with and how much people enjoy themselves.
What do you like to do in your spare time?
I’ve recently rehomed a Border Collie named Blitzy from my local Dog’s Trust, so I’m really looking forward to dog walking in the crisp Autumn months. I’m also currently learning to Crochet and have become quite an avid wool shopper!
Karen is based at our offices in Margate but will be visiting all our resources and clubs in the next few weeks so if you haven’t yet met her, look out for her at a service near you soon!
