Amanda Maggs started her role as the Team Leader for Somerset with a surprise Zoom meeting with all her colleagues coming together to congratulate her.
She’ll be taking over from Anne Bilham, who is off to pastures new after more than five years next month.

Amanda joined Shared Lives as a Shared Lives Coordinator for Somerset Council in 2007.

Around 18 months ago SLSW took on the Somerset Shared Lives contract and Amanda and the rest of the team in the county transitioned over.

Her team, as well as SLSW CEO Dominic Spayne and board member Francis Bourke,  joined Amanda on Zoom.

The team enjoyed afternoon tea, made a special Zoom background for the meeting and gave her a box of goodies including stationary, business cards and fun trinkets to help her in her new role.

“It’s really positive for the team and shows how well they have integrated into SLSW,” said Dominic.

“It’s great there will be a familiar face leading the team. You are following in the footsteps of many SLC’s who have stepped up. It’s a brave and ambitious step. You are valued and your behaviours really align with Shared Lives.”

Anne added: “You are cherished and valued it’s a shame we can’t be together in person, but we wish you all the very best of luck in your new job.”

Francis also added his congratulations.

“The role is in safe hands,” he said. “Well done from myself and the board.”

Amanda was shocked by the surprise Zoom meeting but was thrilled to see all her colleagues.

“It’s the first time I’ve felt really valued by an organisation and I’m so glad I joined as part of SLSW and the opportunities that have already come my way,” she said.