Age has not prevented change at St John & St Anne (SJSA), the county’s oldest charity established in 1399. Governors, staff and residents have all been part of this change.
Governors play a vital role at SJSA but in the case of David Pattinson, who is stepping down this year, he has gone above and beyond. Having become a governor in 2010, he became chairman in 2016 with the plan to retire at the end of his term in 2020.
However, when Covid struck in 2020 with its significant implications for a provider of housing for vulnerable older people in Oakham and Uppingham, he felt he could not step down.
He is proud of how SJSA staff at the time did everything they could to support residents.
Just as life was returning to normal, there was the unexpected death of a talented lead fellow governor, Jeremy Orme, which together with major staff changes, meant David’s steady leadership was needed more than ever.
Jeremy had not only provided a strong financial lead, but in addition, his knowledge, advice and friendship were qualities David really valued.
“Together with the then Housing Committee chairman Elaine Woodhead, and the current chair of Property Committee Rob Smith, the four of us had benefitted from each other’s expertise to help guide the charity through challenging times.”
Now with a new enlarged and enthusiastic staff team, led by experienced chief executive Doreen Woodward, and a team bolstered by three other new faces, David feels confident that SJSA is ready to face new challenges in the future. Over the last eight years, the charity has been implementing a programme that continues, of improving properties to better support the residents, many of whom have mobility problems. The work has included the provision of level access to front doors, walk in showers and better designed kitchens. In response to increased demand, plans for additional accommodation have been developed whilst keeping a focus on the Government’s ambition that properties move to a net zero carbon position. All undertaken whilst keeping the charity in strong financial health.
“What has also helped this continuing philosophy of change has been the quality of my fellow governors. When people have left, we have managed to recruit new ones with a wide range of talents. Helping make decisions in the interests of residents has always been our driving force. We know that the residents appreciate this.
Many have described our communities as the best place to live,” commented David.
David has enjoyed his involvement with SJSA immensely. It is a given that people are attracted to the role of governor because it is so worthwhile but in addition his aim has been to make meetings interesting, stimulating and fun. As a result, many have served extended periods of office.
His departure coincides with three other governors leaving including Rob Smith who said “As I leave SJSA, I reflect upon the way the organisation has focussed on creating an environment that allows
residents to live as comfortably as possible in their own home, meeting their changing need throughout their often long-stay. The opportunity to work alongside and influence talented committed fellow governors and staff has been a rewarding experience.”
This means that SJSA needs to attract new people to come forward to fill their places. Governors attend around eight meetings a year, but it is what governors bring to those meetings that is important.
