On Tuesday 18 November 2025, colleagues and volunteers from our Non-emergency Patient Transport Service (NEPTS) came together to be honoured for their outstanding commitment and remarkable contributions at a special celebration event.
In total, all staff recognised for an award amassed a combined 810 years’ service to EMAS and the wider NHS – ranging from 10 to 40 years individual service.
This was the first time NEPTS hosted its own dedicated awards event, having previously featured in broader county ceremonies.
This year’s celebration brought together NEPTS teams from Derbyshire, Lincolnshire, and Northamptonshire. This gave colleagues and volunteers a chance to recognise achievements and enjoy the occasion with their peers.
Joy Weldin, Divisional Director for NEPTS, said:
“What makes NEPTS so special is the compassion and professionalism shown in every interaction.
“These awards are not just about recognising hard work and long service – they’re about celebrating the human touch that makes our patients feel safe and cared for.
“Listening to the stories shared today has been truly moving. They show not only the care and compassion our staff and volunteers give to patients, but also the way they support each other every day.
“Through humour, kindness, and teamwork, they create an environment where colleagues feel valued and connected – and that spirit shines through in the service we provide.”
Joining Joy Weldin at the event were Will Legge, Deputy Chief Executive; Ben Holdaway, Director of Operations; Oliver Newbould, Non-Executive Director; and Dr Steven Dykes, Clinical Director.
Will Legge added:
“It’s an absolute privilege to be here at the first dedicated NEPTS awards service at EMAS.
“This ceremony shines a light on the remarkable impact and achievements our NEPTS colleagues bring to our organisation.
“They make a difference every day by ensuring our patients can access essential care with safety and dignity – whether that’s travelling to chemotherapy, dialysis, or returning home after hospital discharge.
“Their work not only provides vital support to some of the most vulnerable patients but also helps ease pressure on our 999 emergency services.
“Today is about recognising that dedication and the human connection they bring to every journey.”
We were honoured to also welcome VIP attendees Mrs. Elizabeth Fothergill CBE, HM Lord-Lieutenant of Derbyshire; and Sir Richard FitzHerbert Bt, The High Sheriff of Derbyshire.
Sir Richard FitzHerbert said:
“Well done to everyone for their remarkable achievements which we’ve heard about today.
“I’ve been able to see what you all do so brilliantly to help us when we need it.
“The words I’ve noted down at this event are ‘compassion’, ‘putting others first’, ‘bravery’, ‘courage’, and ‘nothing is too much trouble’.”
“The commitment that you all give to your communities is amazing, and we’re all so very thankful for what you do.”
While not everyone could make the event itself, those recognised with an award include:
10 years
Jade Arthur
Kathleen Brabson
Allan Clark
John Donaldson
Ian Moulds
Joseph Neary
Julie Newton
Angela Saunders
Heather Sinclair
Michael Smith
Kerry Stevens
Mark Wilbourn
David Armstrong
Deborah Davidson
Lisa Haire
Richard Holmes
Christopher Miller
David Roome
Trevor Quarry
Michael Broderick
Anthony Jackson
John Kitchener
Paula Pacan
Darren Sewell
Simon Wharton
Andrew Dodd
Christine Evans
Andrew Hatton
20 years
Audrey Askham
Chris Burnell
Stephen Clements
Harry Fidler
Pamela Morton
Paula Morton
Robert Nicholas
Rachel Poulton-Hartley
Karen Scotney
Melanie Beal
John Powell
Mandy Sawyer
Kim Lethbridge
David Cantrill
Kim Johnson
Gary Oakley
James Oldham
Jan Revill
30 years
Catherine McGrath
Maureen Mycock
Maxine Tivey
40 years
Martyn Oliver
Retirement
Ian Towndrow
Moira Bunka
Paul Farmer
Going the extra mile
Julian Fairchild
Dave Pollock
Outstanding Care Award
Ben Williamson
EMAS values
Our values underpin everything we do, including the way we deliver services and how we all work with others. By living these values and supporting others to do the same, we help to make sure that EMAS is an organisation we can all be proud of.
Respect: Vicki Pettit
Integrity: Georgia Pendry
Contribution: Stephen Peters and Leah Robinson
Teamwork: The NEPTS team based at Mickleover Ambulance Station
Staff stories
As the awards ceremony came to an end, we had the chance to speak with some of the individuals who were recognised.
Ben Williamson
Ben joined the ambulance service in 2014, inspired by the compassion he witnessed from emergency crews during a family tragedy.
As a Patient Carer, Ben is known for his calm presence and dedicated care, often being the first on scene to comfort patients during difficult times.
His dedication to going the extra mile and making every patient’s journey a little brighter has made him a standout member of the team.
Ben said: “When I’m helping patients in and out of hospital, I know that every person I meet is facing their own challenges. I actually enjoy the more complex cases, because they push me to think creatively and do my best for each individual.
“I’ve learned that sometimes, when a patient may have received bad news at hospital, we’re the next people they’ll see before they go home to their family. That’s why I always try to bring a bit of lightness to the situation – if I can make someone smile or laugh, even after a tough day, I know I’ve made a difference.
“For patients who come in for treatment several times a week, like those on dialysis, the journey can feel repetitive and exhausting. I do my best to make those trips as comfortable and positive as possible, because even small gestures can mean a lot.
“To me, outstanding care is about never giving up, even when things get complicated. I always ask myself, ‘What would I want for my own family in this situation?’ That mindset helps me go above and beyond for every patient.
“My decision to join EMAS was personal. After losing my dad in a road accident, I saw firsthand how much of a difference the ambulance service makes. I wanted to give something back, and I’m proud to be able to do that every single day.
“I’m grateful for the support I get from my team and my wife who’s also in the service. We talk openly about the tough days, and that helps us all stay strong and focused on what matters.
“I also love getting out into the community and explaining what we do. People often assume all ambulance staff do the same job, but when they learn about the Patient Transport Service, they realise how important our role is – and sometimes, they even get inspired to join us.”
Jade Arthur
Jade manages a team in South Derbyshire and is based at Royal Derby Hospital.
Over her 10-year career, she’s become known for her approachable leadership style, her commitment to supporting both staff and patients, and her ability to balance work and family life as a single mum.
Jade’s colleagues describe her as unflappable and deeply compassionate.
Jade said: “As a manager, I’m always present and available for my team. You’ll usually find me right in the heart of the hospital, so colleagues know they came to me with anything. If I’m not there, I’m probably with a patient, making sure they’re getting the care they need.
“I believe that supporting my team is just as important as supporting our patients. The work can be unpredictable and demanding, so I make it a priority to be approachable and to bring people together to share ideas and solutions.
“When I first started managing, I realised how important it was to build trust and respect. My advice to new leaders is to get to know your team as people, not just staff. Let them know you’re there for them, and always keep an open mind.
“Our service is a crucial part of the NHS. We help patients get to vital appointments and make sure they’re discharged safely, which keeps the whole system running smoothly.
“Being a single mum, I really appreciate how EMAS supports flexible working. My daughter Evie is my world, and it means a lot that I can balance my job with being there for her. Sometimes, she even comes to the office with me and gets a glimpse of what I do – she loves seeing the ambulances!”
Mark Wilbourn
Mark has been a dedicated member of the NEPTS team for a decade, while also serving as a Community First Responder, coordinator, and mentor.
His passion for helping others was sparked by a personal family experience, and he’s known for supporting patients through every stage of their journeys, from emergencies to returning home.
Mark said: “My job is all about making sure patients get to where they need to go, whether that’s to an appointment, between hospitals, or back home after a stay. Sometimes, I’m supporting those at the end of their lives. It’s a privilege to be there for them.
“I know how important it is to offer comfort, especially to patients who might not have family around. Sometimes, just holding someone’s hand or sitting with them can make all the difference.
“My interest in this work started after my grandad passed away. The NEPTS crew who helped him showed such care and professionalism – it inspired me to join the service and try to make that same impact for others.
“As a Community First Responder, I’ve been first on the scene in emergencies. I remember one time, we managed to restart a patient’s heart and a few days later, I saw him recovering at hospital.
“I next attended his home in my NEPTS role to take his wife to a hospital appointment, and he was stood by her side wishing her luck. Moments like that remind me why this work matters.
“It’s special to be able to support our patients through their whole journey – from that initial emergency response to helping them get home. Sometimes they recognise me and it’s a great feeling to know I’ve been there for them at different stages.
"I also mentor new staff because I want them to feel confident and happy in their roles. Seeing someone grow and thrive in this job is incredibly rewarding.”
Rachel Poulton-Hartley
Rachel began her career as a Patient Care Assistant and later became a Paramedic. After an injury, she was redeployed in a new role, showing resilience and adaptability.
Now a Performance Delivery Manager in NEPTS, Rachel is known for her hands-on leadership and her commitment to keeping patients moving safely through the healthcare system.
Rachel said: “My current role involves working with the control room to plan and coordinate patient discharges across three counties, especially during busy times like winter. I work closely with hospitals and other partners to make sure patients can leave hospital safely and efficiently.
“After my injury, I couldn’t continue as a Paramedic, but I was determined not to let that setback define me. I found a new path in NEPTS, and it’s given me the chance to make a difference.
“As a manager, I don’t just stay behind a desk. If a crew needs help with a patient, I’ll go out on the road and support them. We’re all here to deliver care, and I believe in leading by example.
“There’s a lot of pressure in our work – if we can’t get patients to their treatments or discharged from hospital, it affects the whole system. Our role is just as vital as the emergency crews, and we all have to pull together.
“My motto is simple: treat every patient the way you’d want your own family to be treated. That ‘patients first’ mentality guides everything I do.
“I’m proud of how our team steps up when things get tough. We’re always willing to help each other out. Even if it means taking on tasks outside our usual roles, to make sure patients get the care they need.”
