Dear all,

In 2008 when I started working for the RDS I had no idea that I would stay for this long. Two kids and PhD later, I have quite literally grown up with this job!

As some of you know, we are emigrating to Kuala Lumpur at the end of July. 

So, here we are, nearly 12 years on, and almost the last 17 weeks have been in lockdown! It’s fair to say there will be no party. I feel sad that I won’t get a chance to say a proper goodbye to so many of you. Under any ‘normal’ circumstances, I would be planning an epic party to mark my leaving from the RDS EM but this is not going to be possible and the thought of a Locktini on Zoom fills me with cringing awkwardness 

So, I would like to ask for your help instead so here’s my story…

Since lockdown one thing that has helped me to retain my sanity and happiness (whilst home schooling a 4 and 7 year old and working) is cooking and eating with my family. I believe that food influences our moods, our physical recovery and brings a focus to the day.

But whilst I have been enjoying delicious homemade food, I have also been reflecting on how privileged I am to buy the ingredients I need and have heating facilities to cook food with. My eyes have been opened even more since I started volunteering in March at a local foodbank in Leicester. I help, with other volunteers, to make food and sanitation parcels.

So many families have been struck further into food poverty since COVID-19. 

This foodbank like many others relies solely on donations from Fareshare, the goodwill of community leaders and local people, so that local families don’t go hungry. 

It’s been thoroughly enjoyable and inspiring working with you all. I’ve learned so much and leave with very happy memories. My last working day is the 8^th July. 

Please keep in touch, add me to your LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/in/raksha-pandya-wood-79204733 or just drop me an email: rpandyawood@gmail.com

Take care and stay safe

Raksha Pandya-Wood