The staff, volunteer and board team at Voluntary Action Leeds (VAL) are shocked and saddened to hear the news of the sudden passing of our former colleague Annette Morris.

 

Annette worked for VAL for many years, joining the organisation when we merged with Leeds Voice in the early 2010s.

 

In her role as Project Worker at VAL, working to support the Culturally Diverse Hub and Young Lives Leeds, Annette was part of key work and developments within the organisation, wider sector and communities including the development of our ‘Basics’ approach to Safeguarding, work to support leadership development for people from culturally diverse communities through Trustee roles and annual events to mark Black History Month within the city.

 

Both personally and professionally, Annette campaigned for racial equity, working tirelessly to ensure the reality of people’s lived experience was heard by those shaping city policy and designing services. Her work and voice impacted across the city and beyond, and her legacy will live on in all those she influenced.

 

Since leaving VAL in 2021, Annette had used her skills and expertise in new roles at Leeds and York Partnership Foundation Trust and Leeds Involving People. 

Our colleagues at Leeds Involving People are compiling a book of condolence to be given to her family, if you would like to contribute a story, picture, anecdote or just a few words please email them to info@leedsinvolvement.org.uk (please could you say in your email if you would like your contribution to be anonymous or if you are happy to have your name included).

 

Annette was a kind colleague and friend, caring and funny, and she was immensely proud of her family and their achievements.

 

Her passing is an immeasurable loss, and our thoughts are with all of Annette’s family and friends at this sad time.