After more than a decade of dedicated service in Non-Emergency Patient Transport, Derek Adams has hung up his high-vis for the final time. A much-loved member of the Shropshire team, Derek’s retirement marks the end of an era – and gave colleagues the perfect excuse to celebrate his career, share memories and say a big thank you.
After 12 years of dedicated service in Non-Emergency Patient Transport, our much-loved colleague Derek Adams has retired. Derek, who spent his final working years with EMED Group in the Shropshire NEPTS contract, was recently celebrated by the team with cards, gifts, and a heartfelt collection.
Derek said:
“I’ve really enjoyed my 12 years at NEPTS, especially my time at EMED. It’s been a pleasure working with such great colleagues across the operations, management, control and fleet teams. Thank you to everyone for your support and friendship over the years.”
Derek’s career began with a strong team spirit – pictured here with Gill Backhouse, James Haigh and John Phillips, all of whom joined the service together on the same induction day. While each has taken a different path, their shared beginnings have left a lasting bond. Some, like Derek, remained on the frontline, while others progressed into control and management roles – a great example of the opportunities that exist across the service.
A loyal Coventry City FC fan, Derek could often be found having a pre-shift chat (or football banter!) in the fleet and main unit area. Chris and Steve – who frequently shared shifts and laughs with him – will particularly miss his company.
Operations Manager Dan Outram said:
“Derek is everything you’d want in a colleague – dedicated, hardworking, compassionate and well respected by everyone. He always went above and beyond, and we’ll all miss his great personality and sense of humour. We wish him the very best for a well-earned retirement.”
From all of us at EMED, thank you, Derek. Enjoy the holidays ahead – and don’t be a stranger. The kettle’s always on for a brew and a good football catch-up.
