Emergency Operations Centre staff with the South East Coast Ambulance Service have been honoured with the King’s Medal for Long Service and Good Conduct.
It’s the first year the awards have included control room teams, recognising their 20 years of frontline service handling nearly a million 999 calls across the region.
SECAmb was pleased to welcome the Vice Lord-Lieutenant for East Sussex, Kathy Sambrook, to present the medals on behalf of the King.
The ceremony, which took place at The Grand Hotel, Eastbourne on Thursday 16 October, also saw long service awards presented to staff and volunteers to mark 10, 20, 30 and, in the case of three colleagues, a remarkable 40 years’ service – a full list of award winners can be found below.
Chief Executive Commendations, aligned to the Trust’s values of courage, kindness and integrity were awarded to two SECAmb paramedics.
Hastings Critical Care Paramedic Dave Staplehurst was recognised for his resilience and professionalism in returning to work following a particularly challenging time in his personal life.
Meanwhile, Medway Operational Team Leader, Ben Wallace picked up an Excellence in Clinical Care commendation for his conscientious approach to safeguarding and for making a critical difference in a case that proved potentially life-saving for a young patient suffering from complex mental health issues.
Dispatch Team Leader, Pete Coldicott was among control room colleagues presented with his King’s Medal. Pete, who began his career as a 999 call taker two decades ago for Sussex Ambulance Service, has undertaken a variety of roles over his career. He said: “I think it’s right that we’re now able to receive this medal. We’re a green family, whether we’re out on the road or providing frontline care from the control room. We all experience every job and shift together.”
Hastings Paramedic Philip Wadey, who was among those recognised for an incredible 40 years’ service said: “Patients are the main reason I do the job. It’s about making a difference in a crisis and helping people solve problems. Over the years, I’ve also really enjoyed helping new colleagues build their skills and see them develop in to excellent experienced clinicians.”
SECAmb Chief Executive, Simon Weldon added: “Our awards ceremonies provide us with an opportunity to pay tribute to our colleagues who have dedicated their lives to serving others and also hear some amazing examples of skill and care provided to our local communities.
“I’m delighted that we can now recognise our control room colleagues in the same way we recognise our field operational colleagues as they show real commitment to helping others at the very frontline of our service.
“Thank you and well done to every single award winner and my thanks also goes to their family and friends. The support they provide enables our teams to perform their roles day-in, day-out over so many years.”
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