Celebrating 10 Years with Angela at SIG

At Social Interest Group (SIG), we take immense pride in recognising the dedication and passion of our staff team, who help make a difference in the lives of those we serve. This month, we are excited to feature Angela Henry, Director of Services & Support, who has been a vital part of SIG for over a decade. From her early days volunteering to her current role as a Director, Angela has grown with SIG, and her journey is one of inspiration, perseverance, and commitment.

What brought you to SIG initially?

Thanks to a colleague’s recommendation, Angela’s journey with SIG began over 10 years ago. At the time, SIG had opportunities with Penrose Fusion, particularly with the Drug Intervention Programme (DIP) for Lewisham. Angela joined as a volunteer, but it was not long before she was offered a paid position. From there, her career took off, leading her to her current role as Director.

Angela reflects: “I can safely say I’ve held positions across all pathways, which has provided me with quite an extensive chest of experience. My first day is a bit of a blur, but I remember washing the staff and participants’ coffee cups every morning! I didn’t mind—it made me realise that we all have a part to play, and every little bit counts.”

How has your role evolved over the years?

Angela’s role has shifted numerous times, often influenced by internal and external environments. She’s held a variety of titles, each one adding to her confidence and growing her skill set. “I’ve had the chance to make a real difference over the years, which I consider one of my biggest achievements,” she shares. “Being part of SIG has allowed me to impact people’s lives meaningfully, which I’m truly proud of.”

Memorable Moments and Lessons Learned

When asked about her most memorable moments at SIG, Angela’s smile quickly appears. Over the years, she has many positive memories.

Still, one particularly challenging experience was the passing of Antony Miller, SIG’s Operations Director, some years back. “His loss left a massive void, and it was a reminder that none of us are indispensable. It also taught me the importance of maintaining a healthy work-life balance and looking after our well-being.”

A Side You Might Not Know About Angela

While Angela is known for her leadership and passion, there is more to her than meets the eye! One lesser-known fact about Angela is her exceptional listening skills. “I’m trained in active listening, and I’ve always been someone people confide in. I like to say – we have two ears and one mouth for a reason: more listening and less talking!”

Looking to the Future

As SIG continues to grow, Angela is optimistic about the future. She believes the organisation will go from strength to strength. She hopes SIG will be recognised as a provider of choice for commissioners from Health, Criminal Justice and local authorities. Her advice for new starters? “Be reliable and always give your best. It will stand you in good stead for the future.”