Get to know Debs!

Hi Debs! I’ve known you from when you were the receptionist at my opticians. Now you’re serving ice cream to the good people of Poynton, how did that come about?

Well, I sadly lost my husband, Martin, in September 2019 and then of course the pandemic happened. I was furloughed like many people and was wondering what to do with my life.

I was contemplating moving away from the area and prayed to God for guidance. I then saw the advert for the job at Just-Ice in my church’s newsletter and it just felt meant. I started as an assistant manager and now I’m the manager.

Just-Ice exists to support survivors of modern slavery and you’re working alongside people who’ve experienced awful trauma. How do you balance offering support and friendship whilst providing the training these people need? I imagine it must be very challenging!

Yes, it is very challenging, especially because we have to deal with all the usual business of running a café as well.

Fortunately, I've got a great team of staff and volunteers around me so I can delegate to make sure nothing's overlooked.

It's all about finding the right balance, but the beneficiaries always come first. Obviously we're aware of their past and are sensitive to their needs. It's all about giving them the support they need and being patient.

As a Christian, I always look to God for guidance and He's never let me down!

It must get quite emotionally draining at times. What do you enjoy doing to unwind (apart from jumping out of planes)?

I really enjoy walking and when I'm working I always try to go for a quick stroll during my breaks.

I love socialising and the odd cheeky glass of gin is always welcome!

What for you is the best thing about working at Just-Ice?

Without doubt it's the people, whether that's the staff, volunteers or customers. The companionship I get from Just-Ice is so important to me and it feels like a second home!

I've made some good friends through work and we regularly get together to socialise.

You must have mixed feelings when the survivors complete their time at Just-Ice and are ready to start the next chapter in their life. Is it like being a mother hen?

Yes definitely! It feels like when your kids leave home!

I'm both proud and sad when it's time for our beneficiaries to leave. I see the progress they make and how they've grown in confidence which is wonderful!

Naturally it's hard seeing them go but there's always someone else who needs help and it's all part of what Just-Ice is here to do.

We’ll close with a light-hearted question. Now, we already think you’re a superhero, but if you could have a super power what would you choose and why?

An invisibility cloak would be quite handy so I can disappear when I need 5 minutes!

I can see how that could be useful with how busy Just-Ice gets! Thanks for taking the time to chat Debs!