Tributes have been paid to mum-of-three Helen Duerden, who has been described as “a wonderful colleague” whose “dedication, professionalism and passion” stood out.
A spokesperson for Sefton CVS (Council for Voluntary Service) said: “It is with profound sadness that we share the news of the passing of our much-loved colleague, Helen Duerden. Helen passed away on the afternoon of Thursday 15th October, after taking ill suddenly.
“Her unexpected death has left us all deeply upset, and our thoughts and condolences at this very difficult time are with her husband Mike, her Mum Carol, her three children and the rest of her family, friends and colleagues.
“After joining Sefton CVS in January 2024, Helen quickly became a highly regarded and respected friend and colleague. Only recently, we shared in her happiness as she married her partner Mike, alongside her loving family.
“Helen’s dedication, professionalism and passion has always been at the forefront of her work, whether in her first role at CVS as a Heritage Officer on the Sefton at 50, Hearts of Gold Project or more recently as our Volunteer Centre Sefton Co-ordinator.
“Helen has been a wonderful leader of the Volunteer Centre, working closely with colleagues across our organisation and the wider Sefton VCF sector to develop new volunteering opportunities, support local community groups and recognise volunteers.
“Alongside her work with CVS, she has also been an outstanding local Councillor in Netherton, and she is much mourned by her Council colleagues.
“Everyone at Sefton CVS feels privileged to have known and worked alongside Helen. We will remember her with great fondness for her positive attitude, energy and joy in life, and she will be deeply missed by us all.
“A memory book will be available in our Burlington House offices for any colleague who may wish to contribute. Please get in contact with us directly to arrange this.
“Her family has asked for privacy at this very sad time.”
Sefton Labour Group said: “It is with great sadness that we share that our dear friend and colleague Helen Duerden has tragically passed away. Helen suffered an aneurysm and sadly passed away on the afternoon of Thursday 15th October.
“Helen was recently married on September 19th to Mike. She was the kindest, most caring person anyone could wish to meet.
“Helen was always full of energy, joy and passion for the work she carried out as a Labour Councillor in Netherton North ward, and as a Volunteer Development Coordinator working at Sefton Community Voluntary Sector.
“Helen was elected to Sefton Council in June 2024 and worked tirelessly on behalf of her residents. Helen served on a number of committees and was Labour’s representative on Sefton Hospitalities Operations Limited. Helen was determined to support our most vulnerable by giving training and job opportunities to local people. Her professionalism and dedication made a significant difference to many people’s lives.
“Sefton Labour Group are so very proud to have had the opportunity to know and work with Helen and to have her as a big part of our Labour family. We are proud to call her a friend and colleague. She will be sadly missed by us all.
“We would like to pass on our sincere condolences to her husband Mike, her Mum Carol, her three children, her sister Rachel, her brother Asa and the rest of her family at this devastating time.”
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