Helen was one of those rare people whose presence genuinely made a difference. She was always kind, positive and welcoming, with a warmth that put people at ease immediately. Whether we were swapping stories about family and life, having a moan about work, or laughing about the everyday things that came our way, she always made time for people and made them feel valued.

I often still walk onto the 5th floor expecting to see Helen there, and it catches me by surprise when I remember she’s gone. Things just don’t feel quite the same without her. She had a wonderful presence and a way of lighting up a room that will be deeply missed by everyone who knew her.

Helen was also incredibly resilient and dedicated to those around her. As a Brownie leader, she gave so much of herself to supporting and inspiring young people, and it’s clear that her impact reached far beyond the workplace into her community and the lives of countless others. Although I never had the opportunity to work directly with her, I know how respected, valued and well-liked she was by her colleagues.

It is especially heartbreaking knowing that, after an amazing 44 years of service, Helen was looking forward to partially retiring and spending more time with her family. I am so sad that this time has been taken away from you all. I hope you can take comfort in knowing just how much Helen meant to so many people, and how lasting the difference she made will be. I am sure you are already immensely proud of the remarkable person she was, but i hope, by reading these messages, you take comfort in the lives she touched, and the legacy of kindness, humour and generosity she leaves behind.

Helen will be remembered with great affection, and greatly missed.

My thoughts are with Helen’s family, friends and our colleagues.