Team members from across Nottinghamshire were celebrated for their exceptional service and dedication at a ceremony on 23 April.
In total, staff at the event have amassed an impressive 737 years’ service in total to EMAS and the wider NHS – ranging from 10 to 30 years individual service.
Greg Cox, Divisional Director for Nottinghamshire, said at the event:
“This is a special occasion to recognise and celebrate your success and the vital contribution you make to patient care in Nottinghamshire at EMAS, and across the wider NHS.
“It’s also a time to acknowledge the friends and relatives of our colleagues in the room who support them to be able to do what they do.”
Joining Greg Cox at the event were Kerry Gulliver, Director of People; Jackie Jones, Non-Executive Director; and Karen Sullivan, Associate Director of Corporate Governance.
Kerry Gulliver added:
“I always enjoy attending these events because they’re a chance to hear people’s stories, their journeys, and how their careers have grown.
“Let’s take this moment to celebrate – it’s so important that we recognise the achievements of our colleagues.”
Those recognised included:
10 years
- Georgina Benson
- Jane Cornes
- Scarlett Pouncey
- Milissa Shenton
- Andrew Bache-Smith
- Ben Bates
- Martin Borrett
- Gavin Briers
- Holly Brock
- Zoe Cooper
- Sarah Callaghan
- Sheryl Dolan
- Fabian Ehlers
- Sam Ellis
- Jonathon Fendley
- Rafal Gliniecki
- Alex Heath
- Peter Hughes
- Luke Jones
- Michael Phipps
- Charlotte Maddison
- Josephine Lipscombe-Ridley
- Callum Urquhart
- Nargis Azam
- Amy Baggaley
- Rachel Brelsford
- Jonathan Brown
- Jamie Doherty
- Andrew Freestone
- Jennifer Gould
- Robert Griffin
- Gary O’Doherty
- Toni Ryder
- Simone Watts
- Belinda Wilkinson
20 years
- Rebecca Allen
- George Bugg
- Sarah Henson
- Martin Judson
- Samantha Linley
- Shaun Palethorpe
- Emma Pearce
- Keith Young
- Graham Anderson
- Nina Davies
- Karen Davis
- Christopher Lukins
- Kevin Morton.
30 years
- Anthony Haslam
- Chris Rea
- Wendy Thomas
Special Recognition Award
- Vehicle Preparation team
With the presentation of awards drawn to a close, we managed to catch-up with a few of those who were recognised.
Staff stories
With the presentation of awards drawn to a close, we managed to catch-up with a few of those who were recognised.
George Bugg
George began his NHS career in 2003 at the Queen’s Medical Centre, aged 16, working as a Pathology Porter. In 2008, he moved to the Emergency Department, where he served first as an Emergency Department Assistant and later progressed to Clinical Support Worker.
In October 2015, George transitioned from the Emergency Department to start his ambulance career as a Technician.
George said: “I think the reason I stayed and progressed within the NHS is I have a caring side.
“I remember walking around the wards, stocking up on hospital equipment, when I got chatting to a few colleagues. They encouraged me to transfer to the Emergency Department.
“My time there really helped build my confidence in patient care and communication.
“The NHS has always felt like one big family—from the doctors and nurses to the porters and receptionists—and I’ve always felt supported along the way.
“Since joining EMAS, my confidence has grown even more as I’ve gained new skills and qualifications.
“This role also involves much more patient contact, which I really value. I always try to treat our patients the way I’d want my own family to be treated.”
Alex Heath
Alex joined the ambulance service in 2015 as a trainee Technician. It was noted in his citation that his potential was quickly recognised, and he progressed in his career to become a highly respected Divisional Senior Clinical Leader (DSCL).
Alex said: “I first became interested in the ambulance service while working in A&E. I enjoyed observing the ambulance crews and realized I preferred being out on the road. The fast-paced nature and variety of patients we see make the job incredibly rewarding.
“I didn’t expect to move into a DSCL role so soon, but with only six posts in Nottinghamshire, I decided to go for it. My experience mentoring students helped prepare me.”
“Take every opportunity – sometimes you have to put yourself forward, as they won’t always come to you.
“I’ve always felt supported at EMAS, and the fantastic teams on the road make my job easier. A big part of my role is education and helping staff navigate complex situations. It’s a high-risk job, but we have incredibly talented people around us.
“This job can be tough on loved ones, and it takes a special person to support us, which is why I’m grateful to my wife who is here with me today.”
Emma Pearce
Emma joined EMAS in 2003. She is noted as consistently going the extra mile for patients, ensuring every aspect is covered.
Over the years, Emma has successfully mentored students, inspiring others who are now thriving in their roles. She is well-regarded for her caring nature and has built strong relationships with her colleagues.
Emma said: “Time has flown by. I met my husband here, got married, had children, and now they’re grown. I still love my job because I truly enjoy helping people. I’m proud to work with such a great team and be there for our patients when they need us most.
“Mentoring is important to me. One student I mentored has grown from a shy 18-year-old to someone praised by management and colleagues alike. It’s rewarding to be part of someone’s journey and see them succeed.
“If we treat everyone like family, we can’t go wrong. It’s all about having the confidence to do the right thing at the right time for our patients.”
Ben Bates
Ben has served the communities of South Nottinghamshire for 10 years, joining the service in 2015 as a Technician and qualifying as a Paramedic in 2021.
Ben is currently Duty Commander with the Nottinghamshire team. He is noted as contributing to various projects and his strong work ethic and dedication to patient care, alongside the respect he has earned from his peers and colleagues.
Ben said: “I’ve received a lot of support from people at EMAS throughout my development, which has been impactful as I strive to grow in my role. Now, I’m proud to pay that support forward to newer colleagues and those seeking advice on how to develop their careers. It’s rewarding to help others in this way.”
“I’ve had the privilege of working with fantastic people, from the management team to those on the road. It’s a great environment.”
Ben adds, “Most of us in the ambulance service aren’t looking for recognition, but it’s nice to be here today, celebrating with colleagues.”
