This week we said goodbye to a long-standing member of staff and manager of our early years service, Marise Gowenlock, who is leaving MCFB after 19 years of service to spend more time with her family and continue working privately as a psychotherapist.

Marise managed the early years service since 2001, initially as part of the Sure Start Programme and later as part of MCFB. During this time she worked to support numerous parents, babies and infants and supervised scores of social work students undertaking practice placements as part of their degrees. She has always been fascinated by the interaction between very young children and their parents and brought a huge amount of empathy and compassion to the service, which will be greatly missed by all of us.

Marise said:
“The first three years of a child's life impact hugely on their subsequent life opportunities. I know that, together with parents, we have made a positive difference to many children, some of whom are now young adults. Many thanks to all the colleagues, volunteers, board members and students I have worked with over the years.”

MCFB CEO, Anne Spiers said:
“Marise is leaving a legacy of compassion, empathy and professionalism that will be carried forward by the Early years Team here at MCFB. Her influence has shaped the service and  will continue to resonate in our future endeavors. We wish her much enjoyment in her new adventures!”

Due to COVID restrictions, we were unable to hold a face to face leaving party for Marise, however we were able to gather together colleagues and students, old and new, in a virtual gathering for a surprise zoom farewell party (with the help of ex MCFB CEO, Steve Gowenlock)! We would like to thank Marise for all her hard work, enthusiasm and passion and wish her all the very best for the future.