They have taken on the position following the end of the term of office of previous directors Mary Carre and Jo Cottell.
Working together will be nothing new for the pair who have spent their entire careers at Guernsey Samaritans side-by-side.
‘We’ve both been here for around three or four years, and actually started our training together,’ said Mrs Collenette.
‘We sort of come as a package deal now.’
She said she was first motivated to join the organisation after a close friend lost a family member to suicide.
‘After going through that experience, I just wanted to do something to help others and prevent anyone else from going down that path.’
For Ms Luff, it was her previous experience of being a trained counsellor that motivated her to volunteer.
‘I came to a point where I couldn’t actively work due to some life difficulties, but I still wanted to use my skills,’ she said. ‘And since joining, I’ve found that the organisation suits me really well. I love it here. I love my colleagues too and I really believe in the mission.’
As directors, Ms Luff and Mrs Collenette will take on a wide variety of responsibilities, from overseeing the general running of the Guernsey branch to managing the listening volunteers, coordinating outreach events and maintaining relationships with other Samaritan branches, as well as the central charity.
‘It’s exciting but also quite a nerve-wracking responsibility,’ said Mrs Collenette. ‘But luckily, Mary and Jo did a really fantastic job, so there is nothing too major for us to sort.’
The pair’s main tasks for the time being will revolve around developing the Guernsey Samaritans’ new home at the Grow Hub and recruiting more volunteers.
‘People can register to volunteer at our Guernsey branch via our website,’ added Ms Luff.
‘We really welcome contact from anyone who would like to be involved.’
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