National Estates and Facilities Day (18 June) provides us with an opportunity to thank our colleagues, often working behind the scenes to make sure things run smoothly.
From porters to mechanics, chefs to building managers, our estates, facilities and capital team helps make up the 114,000 people in this area of the NHS.
Their work is invaluable in maintaining our estate, ensuring facilities are safe and that colleagues can provide the best care possible.
Christopher Fletcher, porter – ‘No two days are the same’
Christopher has been a porter since 1989 and is currently based in A&E at Fairfield General Hospital.
As part of his role, he supports patient transfers and equipment transportation, often working within a fast-paced environment where no two days are the same.
He said: “I love working on A&E and the social aspect of meeting new people every day. During my 36 years as a porter the best part of my job has been feeling like we are making a difference and helping people during what is often a difficult time for them.”
Josie Hamer, receptionist and clerical worker for Medical Device Services – displaying a ‘can-do’ attitude
Josie was recently recognised with an admin of the year award nomination for being an asset to the team.
She has continued to show exceptional dedication and resilience through several challenges to ensure the smooth running of the service.
Mark Hornby, medical engineering manager, said: “Josie has showed an unwavering commitment to her role and an exceptional work ethic.
“Her dedication has allowed us to maintain our essential services and her hard work should be celebrated.”
Dave Gruber, senior estates officer (Projects) – approaching 42 years’ service in the NHS
As part of his role, Dave helps to manage and oversee projects which look to improve our estates and facilities.
Approaching his 42nd year of NHS service Dave who started out as an apprentice continues to try to provide an environment that colleagues are happy with.
He said: “We’re often seen in the background but can go unnoticed. We’re there providing a service – your heating, your hot water, your oxygen, your medical gases the basic things.
“We keep the systems running, keep them operational as best we can. I can look at a building over here and say I’ve had a large involvement in that, and you know, it’s been running for years.”
