Recognising Good Work Across EMED

Kandice Veverines-Funnell, Burgess Hill Safe Care
As a direct result of her recent induction and PMVA training, Kandice was able to help save a life in extremely difficult circumstances. Kandice was off duty when she noticed a concerning situation unfolding on a bridge ahead of her. After pausing to assess what she was seeing, she realised that a person was in crisis and preparing to end their life. Kandice immediately contacted the emergency services and made her way safely to the bridge, where she began the challenging task of engaging and negotiating with the individual. She was soon joined by Police and Fire crews and continued to actively support all those involved. Despite the seriousness of the situation, Kandice worked calmly and collaboratively with the emergency services, and together they were able to pull the person to safety. The individual is now receiving appropriate support and is doing well. In recognition of her outstanding actions, the Police have recommended Kandice for a formal Commendation. Kandice joined the Safe Care team in Sussex only a short time ago and has already become a highly valued member of the team. We are incredibly proud of her kindness, courage and commitment to safeguarding life.

Brian Glancy, West Suffolk
Brian received personal praise from Dr Ewen Cameron, Chief Executive Officer at West Suffolk Hospital, for his kindness, professionalism and commitment to patient care. While collecting blood samples from New Bury Community Centre early one morning, Brian realised that bloods from the previous afternoon had not been collected and therefore risked missing their required processing timeframe. Although Brian was not originally responsible for the delayed collection, he immediately took ownership of the situation. Without hesitation, he attended the centre himself to ensure the samples were safely collected and delivered to the hospital. Brian’s actions demonstrated deep care for patient wellbeing, a strong sense of responsibility and a commitment to doing the right thing without being asked. His professionalism reflects extremely well on EMED and the service we provide.

Sara Davies and Clair Miles, Shrewsbury
Sara and Clair were the first crew on scene following a road traffic collision involving an 89-year-old man who had been knocked over and sustained a head injury. They acted immediately, providing first aid and reassurance to the patient while awaiting the arrival of the emergency services. Once additional services arrived, Sara and Clair worked closely alongside them to ensure the patient received appropriate care. Their calm, compassionate and professional response in a distressing situation was recognised as exemplary.

Amy Jackson, Leeds CCO
Amy has been recognised for her outstanding support during the trial of a new portal booking system for mental health transport in the Sussex area. During an exceptionally busy day involving a high volume of complex journeys, Amy provided skilled planning support to Bed Managers, ensuring journeys were carried out safely and without incident. Feedback from a Bed Manager praised Amy for making a challenging day significantly easier, highlighting her ability to manage awkward and high-risk journeys with professionalism and care. Amy has also received positive feedback from multiple crews, who have noted the overall improvement and support provided by the control team. Her contribution demonstrates the vital role controllers play in safe patient transport.

Nick Stamp, Hull Courier Services
Nick was nominated for his selfless and thoughtful support of a colleague over several months. Following a colleague’s heart attack and return to work on reduced hours, Nick repeatedly stepped in to protect their health and wellbeing. This included insisting on handling the delivery of heavy stores himself and, on another occasion, attending in heavy rain to change a colleague’s punctured tyre so they would not be left stranded for an extended period. Nick’s actions were carried out without complaint or expectation of recognition and reflect genuine care, kindness and teamwork. He is widely regarded as a considerate and dependable colleague.

Jade Russell and Sophie White, Brighton
Jade and Sophie went above and beyond their roles when they intervened in a violent incident involving a Royal Mail worker who was being assaulted by two individuals in the street. Without hesitation, they worked together to de-escalate the situation, placing themselves at personal risk in order to protect a member of the public. They provided first aid at the scene and remained calm and professional throughout. Their actions demonstrated exceptional courage, compassion and integrity, and undoubtedly prevented the situation from becoming more serious.

Vincent Fletcher, Keynsham
At approximately 14:00 on Wednesday 5 November, Vincent attended Bath Dialysis to collect a patient when he noticed another patient leaning against a water machine and appearing unresponsive. Vincent immediately checked the patient and identified that they had stopped breathing. He called for assistance, helped move the patient safely to the floor and began CPR while a dialysis nurse contacted emergency services. The patient began to show signs of recovery and was placed into the recovery position before the ambulance arrived. Vincent then continued with his scheduled duties. His quick thinking, decisive action and calm response were instrumental in saving a life.

Jeremy (Sam) Jenner, Brighton
Sam was recognised following an incident outside the Royal Sussex County Hospital where a patient collapsed and became seriously unwell. A MET call was issued and Sam immediately assisted medical professionals at the scene. When it became clear that the patient needed moving safely and no lifting equipment was available, Sam quickly arranged for an EMED crew to bring a Megamover to support the transfer. The patient was safely moved to the Discharge Lounge for further treatment. Although Sam had already finished his shift and had a personal medical appointment to attend, he prioritised patient care without hesitation. His actions demonstrate outstanding teamwork, professionalism and commitment to EMED’s core values.

David Barnett, Shrewsbury
David has been recognised for consistently delivering excellent patient care. Feedback from a patient he transported to Queen Elizabeth Hospital highlighted how David helped put her at ease during a journey that caused anxiety due to a previous road traffic accident. His positive attitude, reassurance and calm presence made a significant difference to her experience. David is known for his can-do approach with both patients and colleagues and, despite managing his own disability, always brings warmth, humour and professionalism to his role.

Ellie Sommerton and Evelyn Dinham, Salisbury
Ellie and Evelyn, both relatively new to their roles, demonstrated exceptional professionalism when they came across an elderly woman who had fallen and sustained head and facial injuries. With emergency services delayed due to traffic congestion, the crew ensured their own patient was comfortable waiting while they provided care to the injured member of the public. They offered pillows and blankets, treated wounds as best they could, and stayed with her, offering reassurance until emergency services arrived. Their calm, compassionate response reflected excellent judgement and care for both patients and the wider public.

Timothy (Ian) Hooper, Shrewsbury
During only his second week with EMED, Ian supported a patient who experienced a seizure lasting approximately 40 minutes. Despite never having witnessed a seizure before, Ian remained calm, compassionate and reassuring to both the patient and their escort while waiting for an ambulance. His composed response in a high-pressure situation was faultless and demonstrated strong instincts and professionalism so early in his role.

Connor Daniels, Trinity Simpson and Lauren Eagle, Guildford Safe Care
Connor was part of a three-person crew attending a mental health transport that quickly became challenging. After initial engagement, the patient agreed to travel but then attempted to abscond outside the hospital. Connor acted swiftly to prevent the patient from fleeing, despite being physically assaulted during the incident. Throughout, Connor prioritised patient safety, holding on until his colleagues were able to support and restrain the patient safely. Even after sustaining injuries and attending A&E himself, Connor’s first concern was ensuring the patient had been transported safely. Connor, Trinity and Lauren demonstrated exceptional teamwork, courage and commitment to Safe Care principles.

These examples show the impact of good work carried out every day across EMED… often unseen, but always important.

We’re proud of our colleagues and the professionalism, care and commitment they bring to their roles, and we’ll continue to recognise and share these moments.