It was smiles and celebrations all round last night with two PayPlan ladies winning at this year’s Credit Strategy Women in Credit Awards.

Our Vulnerability Lead Emma Gibbons was crowned Vulnerability Leader of the Year, and Partnership Development Manager Iona Murray scooped Rising Star of the Year.

Emma has been recognised for the way she’s revolutionised the service we provide to vulnerable clients. Not only has she introduced a dedicated PayPlan vulnerable client team, but also designed and delivered domestic abuse training across the free debt advice sector – and played a pivotal role in a gambling-related financial harms project with GamCare and several other organisations.

Antony Price, Voluntary Partnership Development Manager said: “I am beyond thrilled for Emma getting this truly deserved award in recognition of all the hard work she has put into supporting those who need our help the most.  As a colleague working closely by her side, I can honestly say she is one of the hardest working people I have ever had the privilege of working with, but more than that, she truly cares.  This award is true acknowledgement of the wonderful woman she is!”

Iona was named Rising Star for the way she’s transformed creditors’ digital debt advice journeys for customers affected by the pandemic. She was also instrumental in delivering PayPlan’s market-leading Referral Hub to all creditor partners – and introducing a new debt advice service for housing associations.

Our Partnerships Director, Peter Munro, said about Iona’s win: “We are so lucky to have such a superstar in our team. Her passion and dedication are second-to-none and she’s redefined what best practice partnership working looks like with creditors – helping thousands of struggling consumers receive the free debt advice that they need. Congratulations from us all at PayPlan!”

Rachel Duffey, our CEO, said: “I am absolutely delighted for Emma and Iona. They both work tirelessly and the way they’re committed to their roles is outstanding. You can see how genuinely passionate they are about improving accessibility to debt advice, enhancing the way it’s delivered and helping those in need.

“With Iona unable to make the ceremony, I was extremely proud to collect her award on her behalf. It was a fantastic night with Iona and Emma thoroughly deserving these prestigious accolades – huge congratulations to you both.”