Helen was a brilliant and visionary work colleague. Passionate about working with young children and their families, she championed support and better outcomes for so many. As the Parenting Lead, she was instrumental in developing, embedding and managing the Parenting Support Service in Lambeth and providing a personable focus for the community. 

I knew Helen by reputation, as a powerful organiser, long before I met her. Upon meeting her in person it came as a pleasant surprise that she was able to balance those skills with being a fun-spirited and friendly soul to work with, evidenced by her approach towards others placing everyone at their ease. Her professionalism made it easy and pleasant to work with her.

Helen did a brilliant job coordinating the many parenting courses in Lambeth and distributing them fairly throughout the Children’s Centres. I often rang Helen, to seek her opinion or support, and she never hesitated to be upfront and honest with me in her responses. She was always very responsive to my questions and queries even on a Friday afternoon at 4 pm when it was time to go home!

Helen cared deeply for the people around her, was kind and passionate and made an impact on many lives. Helen was a beautiful person inside and out. I will remember Helen’s energy, tenacity and ability to act as an advocate for those she cared for. 

I wish Helen’s family courage and peace during this time of mourning.

Bettina Wilhelm-Exley