For 40 years, Jeff Mills has been a steady, compassionate presence within East Midlands Ambulance Service (EMAS), dedicating his working life to ensuring patients feel cared for, listened to, and respected.
That lifelong commitment has now been recognised nationally: Jeff has received the Ambulance Leadership Forum (ALF) Award, one of the most respected honours in the ambulance sector.
Jeff won the award in the category celebrating exceptional contribution to the Non-Emergency Patient Transport Service (NEPTS) – the very service he has devoted his entire career at EMAS to.
Jeff said: “I never imagined that a chance suggestion would lead to forty years of doing a job I genuinely feel privileged to do.
“Every day I still feel proud to put on the uniform.”
Starting a career that almost never happened
Jeff’s journey into NEPTS began by chance.
Visiting friends in Chesterfield in 1986, he was ready to return home to south Wales when someone encouraged him to apply for a job with the ambulance service.
Not convinced the role was right for him, Jeff said his application was “half done and in red ink” – but it led to an interview, a uniform, and a career that would become a defining part of his life.
By 1987, he had moved permanently to Chesterfield after a year in the job at Bakewell, discovered a community he loved, and found a role he quickly realised he was meant to do.
Jeff reflected: “Once I started, I realised I’d found something special.
“I loved the people, the places, the variety – no two days were ever the same.
“Looking back, applying for this job was the best decision I ever made.”
Putting patients first
Throughout his career, Jeff has transported thousands of patients – many attending dialysis, cancer treatment, and other essential appointments.
His priority has always been to give people dignity, comfort and kindness during what can be difficult and emotional moments.
Jeff regularly stays beyond his shift to make sure patients get home safely and avoid long waits.
He added: “If staying that little bit longer means someone can get home sooner and rest, then that’s what I’ll do.
“When a person isn’t feeling great, the smallest kindness can made the biggest difference.”
The power of listening and connection
Jeff is known for his ability to build trust through conversation.
By asking gentle questions and listening, he helps people feel more at ease – and sometimes reveals extraordinary stories.
During the height of the Covid pandemic, Jeff transported a woman nearing the end of her life. She began the journey withdrawn and quiet. By encouraging small conversations, Jeff helped her open up, and she soon shared fond memories of her modelling career and television appearances.
Jeff remembers: “To see someone go from scared and quiet to smiling and telling you about their life, those are the moments that stay with you.
“That’s when you realise how much a simple conversation can mean.”
A role model for EMAS values
Jeff’s ALF nomination recognises how consistently he demonstrates the EMAS values – respect, integrity, contribution, teamwork, and compassion.
He was nominated by his colleagues and Joy Weldin, Divisional Director for NEPTS at EMAS, who have seen first-hand the pride, compassion, and unwavering professionalism he brings to every patient journey.
Joy said: “Jeff is the kind of colleague who lifts the standard for everyone around him.
“He brings compassion, pride, and professionalism to every shift, and he does so diligently.
“His influence on patients and on the NEPTS team has been remarkable over the years.
“It’s a privilege to recognise his contribution through this nomination.”
Shaping the next generation
Many NEPTS colleagues begin their first days on the road with Jeff. His mentorship has helped shape the confidence, behaviour, and values of countless new starters.
Jeff said: “I always tell new starters: get to know your patients as people.
“Be curious, ask questions, and build trust.
“It helps you care for them better – and it shows them that you genuinely care.”
The man behind the uniform
Outside work, Jeff enjoys a rich family life.
He and his wife Melaine, married for 31 years, have two grown sons – Brenig and Rhys.
He loves golf, gardening, and music – especially Joni Mitchell, Bob Dylan, and The Beatles – and supports both Cardiff City and Chesterfield football clubs.
His NEPTS journey continues
Even with 40 years of service behind him – and having retired and returned – Jeff isn’t ready to step away.
He added: “I still look forward to getting up at 3am and heading into work.
“You never know who you’ll meet or how you might help someone.
“After all these years, that feeling hasn’t changed.”