We’re absolutely delighted to share that our brilliant colleague Patricia Furniss (Pat) –our Head of Reception and HR Assistant – has been awarded a Scroll of Recognition at the Barnet Civic Awards.
Hosted by the Mayor at Hendon Town Hall, the Barnet Civic Awards shine a light on the people and organisations who go the extra mile for their neighbours and communities across the borough.
This is the latest in a real “hat-trick” of recognition for Pat. Over the past year she’s been celebrated by the Aw Boon Foundation for her support of the Chinese community, our Warm Hub was named “Project of the Year” at the Barnet Community Awards, and now she’s received this borough-wide Scroll of Recognition.
Pat is often the first person families meet at Unitas. Each year, she supports more than 3,000 families with warmth, patience and practical help – quietly signposting to other services, helping people navigate benefits, supporting job searches, and making sure families who need it most can access food and essential support.
Day to day, Pat is a calm, friendly face at the front desk – and the person who spots when someone needs a bit more time, a bit more help, or simply someone to listen. She’s known for rolling up her sleeves to make things happen: connecting families to the right support, helping people find their way through forms and services, and making sure no one leaves feeling ignored or alone.
Inside Unitas, Pat is also a much-valued mentor – especially to newer and younger colleagues – offering steady guidance, a practical nudge in the right direction, and lots of encouragement along the way. And in Burnt Oak, she’s a familiar face to many: a proud local resident who’s always looking out for people and bringing the community together.
“Pat is one of a kind. Her job title doesn’t begin to capture the difference she makes to young people, families, colleagues and the wider community – and we’re so pleased to see Patricia recognised at the Barnet Civic Awards.”
We’re so proud to have Pat as part of the Unitas family – and so grateful for everything she does for young people, families and our wider community. Congratulations, Pat!
