Meet our New Team Member - Jess Linge

Tell us a bit about your work background?

Before I started working, I studied sport at college and was a member of the golf academy, which was great because it meant I played golf five or six times a week! After finishing college, I completed an apprenticeship in business. Then I moved to Essex, where
I’ve lived for the last three years. Before I joined Blesma, I worked for an accountancy firm as an Insolvency Administrator.

Although my background has been varied, I believe it has added to my self development and growth.

What first made you want to work for Blesma?

I have grown up with Blesma in my life. My Dad has been a Member for more than 25 years. I have seen the difference Blesma has made to my family’s life, and to be given the opportunity to help others the same way is something very important to me and close to my heart.

I have always loved the opportunities Blesma creates for its Members; from learning new skills and taking up new hobbies, to socialising during activities and making lifelong friendships with people you may never otherwise have met!

Was it strange to start a new job during lockdown?

It has meant I have been unable to carry out my normal duties. However, I have had the chance to connect with, and speak to, lots of Members in my Area, which has been wonderful. Once we are back to normality, I am very much looking forward to getting
stuck in with activities and home visits, it will be great to finally put faces to the voices on the end of the phone!

You got to go to the annual Blesma Golf Day recently...

Yes, I had a fantastic day at the Blesma golf fundraiser. It was my first ‘physical’ Blesma event. It was great to meet Members, and to finally meet some of my colleagues in person. Everyone I spoke to thoroughly enjoyed the day and it was a pleasure to play with my team.

The day consisted of some challenging greens, brilliant golf from players and great final scores. Overall, the event was a success and I look forward to attending more Blesma
events like this in the future.

What have you learned so far?

I have learned a lot since joining Blesma, not just about the job and how the Association operates, but from our Members, too. It has been a pleasure getting to know them and it’s been wonderful to listen to their incredible stories and unique backgrounds.

I have been trying to find out what activities Members enjoy and would encourage them
to share ideas with me – I believe we are constantly learning. I would like to take this opportunity to thank all our Members for their kindness and warmth towards me when I first joined.

What do you like to do for fun?

I am a keen golfer and although I haven’t been able to play as much as I’d like to recently, I always try to practice at the driving range. I also love to play netball!