Last month we had to say our farewells to Ian Carpenter, who is retiring from his role as Helpline Manager at Thirtyone:eight. Ian has served our safeguarding helpline for over seven years. He joined us as a Helpline Practitioner but became our first Helpline Manager in 2019.
During this time Ian has taken thousands of calls from our members, as we have seen a continued increase in the number of enquiries and support required of the safeguarding helpline.
Ian has always been renowned for his deep sense of care and compassion for callers. He has had a wonderful ability when communicating with people, to truly listen to them, and to bring wisdom, expertise and sensitivity to their situations.
His calm and considerate approach has been something that member organisations and callers have really valued and appreciated over the years. His ability to build and sustain positive relationships with them has been of great value to Thirtyone:eight and for that we are sincerely grateful to him.
Ian has been so much more than just an employee. He embodies the values of Thirtyone:eight and always strived for excellence in all we do.
Head of Safeguarding, Karen Eakins says,
“We are so thankful to Ian for all he has given to the work of Thirtyone:eight, but more than that we are grateful for the lasting impact he has made on the team, the service offer, and how we operate. Ian always puts people first, and we will seek to continue in that vein as we move forwards.”
A few words from Ian
I remember the moment when the rebranding of Thirtyone:eight (formally CCPAS) was introduced to the team after months of consultation, working groups and feedback. The phrase that jumped out at me and still means so much today was:
Thirtyone:eight, ‘Creating safer places. Together.’
It was the word ‘together’, that was inspirational for me because that’s been my aim throughout my career in ministry, social care and at Thirtyone:eight. For me it’s about the importance of relationships with colleagues, partners, service users, individuals and members. The better the relationship the more satisfying the work, the greater the support and encouragement and the strength to work through tough and difficult times. If we can do things ‘together’, we are more effective, have more fun and know we are adding value to each other’s lives.
Thirtyone:eight epitomises this approach in every area of it’s work. It’s been an absolute privilege and pleasure to spend the last 7 years of my career at such a caring, considerate, passionate and dynamic organization. I thank God that he led me to this work. I’ve built some wonderful friendships, found deep fulfillment in giving advice to our callers and members and learnt so much through talking with organisations that are undertaking exceptional, valuable, self-sacrificial work. It is a wonderful world if you start to look in the right places!
Our mission at Thirtyone:eight is to, equip, empower and encourage. I believe with my whole heart that this is fulfilled every day in every aspect of our work, TOGETHER!