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From the frontline - Yvonne Lemonius

Lewisham Homes’ leasehold billing and recovery manager on cooking for her team and why she just wants people to be happy

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What does your job involve?

I lead and support the team responsible for the recovery of leasehold service charges.

How did you get into housing?

I fell into housing.  I started working for Lewisham Council in 2000 on a temporary basis. I enjoyed it so much I accepted a full-time post while I studied for my degree in information systems and business.

What’s the best thing about your job?

I like it that no two days are ever the same. Obviously, there are challenges with collecting money; there’s hardship.  But it’s when you resolve those challenges that gives you real satisfaction. 

And the most challenging?

Recovering major works charges!  We work hard to build relationships with our leaseholders to make sure we support them with paying for major works.  Some leaseholders don’t know they may be entitled to financial support, home help and benefits.   By having a conversation we can signpost them to other support services. 

What is your dream job?

To own my own restaurant. I’m very creative.  I’m known as the ‘Cook Up Queen’ in my team!  We cook for each other a lot because work for us is like a second home. We are like family.  I love making savoury starters, maybe a salt fish fritter, dumplings, or ackee and saltfish.  

Tell me what a good day looks like for you

Yesterday was a good day. I had a really full diary and I managed to get through everything! I had interviews on, I prepared for each of my team’s development reviews, and I managed to see my grandkids in the midst of all this! 

Tell me about a bad day.

I don’t have any!  No, of course we all have bad days. For me it’s time wasted.  Every minute of every working day is precious and needs to be spent wisely.

What’s the first thing you’d do if you were Prime Minister?

I would look at the retirement age.  When I started working at 16, the idea of working until I’m 68 would not have been something to look forward to.  I would give individuals flexibility.

What would your super power be and why?

To make everyone happy.  I think if you’re happy, you’re at your best. 

 

What’s the most private thing you’d admit to a colleague?

I’ve had health issues, which I have opened up to my colleagues about.  That’s testament to how much I think of my team as family.

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