Life-saving work recognised and celebrated at ambulance service’s annual staff awards
The North East Ambulance Service (NEAS) came together for an inspiring evening of recognition and celebration at the NEAS Awards 2025: In the Spotlight, held at The Grand Hotel Gosforth Park, Newcastle, on Friday 11 July. Hosted by comic and radio presenter Alfie Joey, the event honoured the exceptional achievements of more than 50 staff members, selected from over 430 nominations submitted by colleagues and members of the public.
The evening also celebrated the incredible dedication of 120 long-serving employees who, between them, have given more than 3,000 years of service to the 2.7 million people across the 3,200 square miles that NEAS proudly serves.
This year’s event was made possible thanks to the generous support of NEAS’s valued sponsors; silver sponsors Teesside University, Ward Hadaway, UNISON, and Sintons and bronze sponsors Talk Works, MGI Learning, and Serve and Protect. Additional support was also generously donated by The Grand Hotel Gosforth Park. Their shared commitment to recognising healthcare excellence was reflected not only in their financial support, but in their active role in presenting awards and celebrating the contributions of NEAS colleagues across a wide range of categories.
The awards recognised contributions from across the 2024/25 period—a year in which NEAS answered over 1.4 million emergency 999 and NHS 111 calls, transported 288,000+ patients to hospital, provided telephone-based care to 139,700 patients, and delivered treatment in homes and communities to a further 139,000 people.
This year’s Patients’ Choice Awards honoured acts of care and compassion that left a lasting impression on patients and their families. In total, the service received over 80 nominations from patients whose lives had been touched by it’s incredible staff.
Redcar station-based paramedic Rachel Clarke and ambulance support practitioner Gary McKenzie were praised for their lifesaving intervention when they stopped a patient from jumping off a flyover bridge near James Cook University Hospital. The pair received glowing reports from the service’s judging panel as well as hospital staff and witnesses who watched as they jumped to action to save the person from what would be a catastrophic fall.
Newton Aycliffe station-based paramedic Hope Burrows and newly qualified paramedic Annabel Faulkner, and Peterlee station-based paramedics Bobbie Dove and Lauren Schofield, also received recognition for going above and beyond for a young patient and her family following a scary medical incident which led to hospitalisation. The patient’s loved ones remarked about how the crews showed an exceptional level of care, taking time out of their busy shifts to check in on the patient and provide reassurance to her family. The judging panel made note of their exemplary care all round and their embodiment of the service’s values.
NEAS chief executive Kev Scollay said: “The vast majority of our colleagues don’t join the ambulance service for personal recognition or an award. Instead, they join to help people – on what can be some of the most difficult days of their lives. Whether they’re out on the road, in our emergency operations centre, or working hard behind the scenes in our support services, each and every single person who was nominated for this year’s awards embody the core values of our service.
“It is an honour to serve alongside them as Chief Executive and celebrate their achievements loudly and proudly! I hope that this year’s ceremony was able to do just that, and capture our sincere gratitude and thanks for everything that they do; our service is nothing without the people who work for it and dedicate the best part of their lives to patient care.
“Huge thanks also to our partners who have sponsored the event and supported this important milestone in our year.”
Among this year’s longest-serving honourees was Maureen Jordan (lovingly known as MoJo to friends and colleagues) who has worked for the service for 45 years. Maureen began her career in the ambulance service washing linen for the ambulances. The service has changed a lot since she began, but she remains part of the ever-important cleaning team.
Also recognised on the night was Ray Burns, who marked an impressive 35 years of service with NEAS. Ray has served in a variety of roles across the organisation, earning widespread respect for his dedication, professionalism and unwavering commitment to patient care. His contributions have supported countless patients and inspired colleagues over more than three decades of service.
The overall winner of the Chair’s Award was Newcastle-based health advisor Farhan Shah, who received the award for his ongoing hard work and incredible work ethic in the service’s emergency operations centre, and his bravery in reporting racial abuse which changed the way the service reported racial abuse and supported its colleagues of colour.
Chair of the service, Stuart Corbridge, said: “Farhan lives and breathes the values of our service to an exceptional level. Working incredibly hard as a health advisor and taking on average over 600 calls per month from the region’s patients, I was impressed to hear his story and the impact he has had on his colleagues and friends.
“Last year, Farhan made the very brave decision to report to the police racial abuse he experienced from a patient when he took their 999 call. This isn’t a decision he made lightly, but it set a precedent for our service: racial abuse will not be tolerated. We were more than happy to support Farhan through his proceedings and were touched when he decided to opt for the pursuit of restorative rather than criminal justice – marking Farhan’s desire not for punishment, but for change.
“This was an honourable decision that he made and represents to its core what Farhan is all about. I am incredibly proud to have chosen him as my winner for the Chairs’ Rising Star Award this year and look forward to seeing him continue to blossom in his very promising career in our service.”
Notes to editors
The winners of the 15 categories were:
Excellence and Innovation
- Michelle Jackson - Newcastle Upon Tyne
- Karl Charlton - Durham
- Matthew Limmer - Middlesbrough
- Gary Shaw - Whitley Bay
- Sarah Hepburn - Ashington
- Laura Blair - Newcastle Upon Tyne
- Emma Burrow - Seaham
Working in Partnership
- Joanne Donnelly - Newcastle Upon Tyne
- Ellie-May Sansum - Billingham
- Rachel Wood - Ryton
- Johnny Lawson - Newcastle Upon Tyne
- Michelle Sinton - Newcastle Upon Tyne
- Julia Reilly - North Shields
- Katie Smith - Wallsend
- Lesley Anderson - Hebburn
- Marzia Mahzabin - Gateshead
Working in Partnership - highly commended
- Andrea Raine - Redcar
Leader of the Year
- Joanne Parkin - Chester Le Street
Education and Training
- Jenny Pattinson - Durham
Compassionate Care
- Debbie Mattinson - Bedlington
Inclusion and Respect
- Loveness Scott - Wallsend
- Sandeep Wales - Bishop Auckland
- Shumel Rahman - Newcastle Upon Tyne
Outstanding Team
- Aaron Bahanda - Houghton-Le-Spring
- Andrew Brown - Newcastle Upon Tyne
- Sid Jackson - Whitley Bay
- Mark Hagan - Jarrow
- Melissa Crulley - Newcastle Upon Tyne
- Alison Green - Newcastle Upon Tyne
- Claire Glister - Gateshead
- Rachel Skeoch - Chester-Le-Street
- Amy Rosindale - Houghton-Le-Spring
- Adam Ratcliffe - Hebburn
- Ali Chapman - Sunderland
- Andrea Thompson - Gateashead
- Carly Ramsey
- Daniel Crawford - Newcastle Upon Tyne
- Emily Grant - Houghton-Le-Spring
- Emily Turnbull - Whitley Bay
- Jennifer Stobbs - Stanley
- Leena Mulholland - Gateshead
- Martin Small - Whitley Bay
- Steven Pratt - Morpeth
Outstanding Individual: Unscheduled Care
- Matthew Storey - Houghton-Le-Spring
Outstanding Individual: Scheduled Care
- Bob Bell - Bishop Auckland
Outstanding Individual: Emergency Operations Centre
- Olivia Salem-Fenwick - Ashington
Outstanding Individual: Support Services
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Pauline Hogarth - Sunderland
Unsung Hero
- Brian Taylor - Sunderland
Patients Choice
- Rachel Clarke - Middlesbrough
- Gary McKenzie - Redcar
- Hope Burrows - Newton Aycliffe
- Annabel Faulkner
- Bobbie Dove - Peterlee
- Lauren Schofield - Durham
Chairs Rising Star
- Farhan Shah - Blaydon
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Winner biographies
Excellence and Innovation
Research team
The research team has been awarded the 2025 Excellence and Innovation Award for their pioneering Health MOT study—a first-of-its-kind initiative aimed at reducing health inequalities by delivering vital health checks directly to underserved communities.
Led by research manager Michelle Jackson, the team includes Karl Charlton (research fellow), Matthew Limmer, Gary Shaw, Sarah Hepburn, Laura Blair (research paramedics), and Emma Burrow (research and development admin assistant. Together, they delivered over 460 place-based health checks for atrial fibrillation, hypertension, cholesterol, and smoking cessation advice using new point-of-care testing—providing rapid results and GP referrals on the spot.
Their work has reshaped how preventative healthcare can be delivered, removing barriers like transport, time, and trust. Judges praised the project for improving patient outcomes, easing NHS pressures, and setting a new standard for proactive, community-first care.
Working in Partnership
Empower staff network, estates team, and staff experience team
A cross-departmental team has won the 2025 Working in Partnership Award for delivering a powerful workplace wellbeing initiative: free period product dispensers across 48 sites.
The project, developed by the Empower staff network in collaboration with the staff experience and estates teams, was a direct response to colleagues—particularly paramedics and operational staff—who struggled to access period products during shifts.
Led by Joanne Donnelly, Ellie-May Sansum, Rachel Wood, Johnny Lawson, Michelle Sinton, and Empower co-chairs Julia Reilly, Katie Smith, Lesley Anderson, and Marzia Mahzabin, the team sourced sustainable, organic products and partnered with a socially responsible supplier.
They also secured a staff discount on reusable products and built the scheme into routine site maintenance to ensure long-term sustainability.
With positive staff feedback already coming in, the judges praised the team’s collaboration, compassion, and innovation in improving staff dignity and reducing stress at work.
Highly commended: Andrea Raine
Andrea has been Highly Commended in the Working in Partnership Award for her outstanding work improving patient care and operational efficiency across the Tees Valley.
She has built strong partnerships with James Cook University Hospital, reducing ambulance handover delays and implementing an Immediate Release protocol—freeing up crews to respond faster to urgent calls. Andrea also played a vital role in expanding access to alternative care pathways like virtual wards and SDEC, enhancing clinical outcomes and patient experience.
In East Cleveland, she led the development of a co-responding scheme with Cleveland Fire, resulting in NEAS’s first co-located ambulance and fire station in Grangetown—a model already being explored for future expansion.
Judges praised Andrea’s initiative, influence, and the positive impact she’s made on colleagues, partners and patients alike.
Leader of the Year
Joanne Parkin
Joanne has been recognised as Leader of the Year for her outstanding dedication, inclusive leadership, and exceptional impact across our service. Described by colleagues as a “NEAS star,” Joanne is a strategic and compassionate leader who has delivered significant improvements through high-profile projects like the medical gases overhaul and working patterns transformation.
Renowned for her calm, solutions-focused approach, Joanne inspires trust at every level of the organisation. Her leadership during critical moments—such as avoiding a major incident involving medical oxygen—showcases her accountability, attention to detail, and patient-centred focus.
Joanne’s team flourishes under her guidance, with many highlighting her coaching style, empathy, and commitment to staff development. She has made a lasting difference not just through successful outcomes, but by building a culture of continuous improvement and mutual respect across NEAS.
With multiple glowing nominations from across the Trust, Joanne truly exemplifies the values of NEAS and is a powerful role model for the next generation of NHS leaders.
Education and Training
Jenny Pattinson
Jenny has demonstrated remarkable resilience and dedication to her development as an apprentice, even while facing profound personal loss.
Volunteering at a hospice, she provided compassionate care to patients and families nearing end of life, using her own experiences to deepen her empathy and communication skills. This hands-on work has enriched her training, preparing her to deliver holistic and sensitive care as a future paramedic.
Judges praised Jenny’s commitment to growth and her ability to navigate difficult conversations, highlighting her as a compassionate and valued healthcare professional. Her journey exemplifies the true spirit of learning through both education and life experience.
Compassionate Care
Debbie Mattinson
Debbie has shown exceptional compassion and professionalism as a paramedic with our service.
During a tragic house explosion in November 2024, she was first on scene and provided vital care to victims, including a two-month-old baby and their distressed family. Debbie’s calm and caring presence helped support the family through a traumatic experience, while she also courageously stood up against inappropriate behaviour from another emergency service officer.
Her leadership and empathy extended beyond patient care, as she coordinated with multiple agencies and ensured her crewmates were supported during the difficult aftermath. Despite personal challenges, Debbie consistently puts patients and colleagues first, demonstrating resilience, kindness, and a deep commitment to compassionate care. Her actions in this crisis and ongoing dedication make her a truly deserving recipient of the Compassionate Care Award.
Inclusion and Respect
Together staff network leaders
Sandeep Wales, Loveness Scott, and Shumel Rahman, members of the Together@NEAS network, have demonstrated exceptional leadership and compassion during one of the most challenging periods in NEAS’s history. Throughout the 2024 race riots, they proactively supported over 155 BME colleagues, providing vital welfare checks and emotional support to those affected by violence and tension.
Their tireless advocacy helped raise awareness of staff concerns at the highest levels of the Trust, ensuring an inclusive and respectful workplace. Under their leadership, the network has driven meaningful improvements, including changes to call scripts to reduce discrimination and a stronger culture of support for staff from diverse backgrounds.
Their dedication, courage, and compassion have made a lasting positive impact on both colleagues and the organisation, making them truly deserving winners of the Inclusion and Respect Award.
Outstanding Team
Aaron Bahanda, Andrew Brown, Sid Jackson, Mark Hagan, Melissa Crulley, Alison Green, Claire Glister, Rachel Skeoch, Amy Rosindale, Adam Ratcliffe, Ali Chapman, Andrea Thompson, Carly Ramsey, Daniel Crawford, Emily Grant, Emily Turnbull, Jennifer Stobbs, Leena Mulholland, Martin Small, Steven Pratt
The Patient Transport transformation team has been honoured for delivering over £1 million in efficiency savings during 2024/25 while improving patient care and protecting emergency services.
Facing a forecasted overspend of £2.7 million in August 2024, the team worked collaboratively to reduce this to £2 million by December, achieving significant cost savings through better use of core resources, cutting reliance on taxis and third-party providers, streamlining patient transport systems, and expanding PTS crews’ roles to free emergency teams for critical cases.
Their efforts have enhanced patient experiences by providing compassionate, reliable transport and empowered colleagues through inclusive, multi-disciplinary collaboration. The programme is recognised as a model for managing large-scale change, securing PTS’ future, and establishing NEAS as the leading provider for patient transport in the region.
Judges praised the team’s professionalism, impact on patient care, and balanced focus on efficiency and service quality.
Outstanding Individual: Unscheduled Care
Matthew Storey
Matthew Storey is a highly skilled paramedic and dedicated mentor within our service. With a strong background in military medical services, Matt brings extensive experience and a personalised approach to coaching early-career paramedics and students. Known for his friendly, respectful style and passion for teaching, he encourages self-directed learning and deepens clinical understanding among those he supports.
Colleagues praise Matt for his professionalism, warmth, and the positive impact he has on both learners and patient care. His mentorship not only builds confidence and competence in future paramedics but also strengthens NEAS’ commitment to quality, development, and excellence in emergency care. Matt’s work ensures that patients receive the best possible care today and in the future.
Outstanding Individual: Scheduled Care
Bob Bell
Bob is a dedicated team manager in the Patient Transport Service, widely respected for his professionalism, compassion, and innovative leadership. Known for his unwavering support of staff, Bob goes the extra mile to ensure colleagues feel valued and empowered, often thinking creatively to meet individual needs.
A standout example of his commitment is his support for a colleague with dyslexia, where he personally arranged tailored assistance, significantly improving her wellbeing and ability to deliver excellent patient care. Bob’s deep knowledge, attention to detail, and mentorship of new managers make him a trusted pillar within the service.
His colleagues praise his approachable nature, positive influence on morale, and tireless dedication, even returning to work quickly after surgery to support his team. Bob’s leadership fosters a supportive, inclusive environment that benefits both staff and patients, making him a truly outstanding member of NEAS.
Outstanding Individual: Emergency Operations Centre
Olivia Salem-Fenwick
Liv is a highly skilled and compassionate health advisor known for delivering expert triage and advice with empathy. She plays a key role in coaching new staff and supporting team leaders, helping improve performance across the emergency operations centre. Consistently achieving top audit scores, Liv leads by example and is highly respected by colleagues.
Patients and healthcare professionals frequently praise her professionalism and kindness, highlighting the positive impact she has on those she supports. Liv’s dedication, leadership, and warmth make her an invaluable member of NEAS and a deserving winner of this award.
Outstanding Individual: Support Services
Pauline Hogarth
Pauline is a highly valued project manager and advocate at NEAS, known for her positive attitude, problem-solving skills, and unwavering support for colleagues. She played a crucial role in managing the transition to a new medical gas supplier, ensuring a safe and seamless supply vital for patient care.
As Chair of the Able@NEAS network, Pauline champions support for neurodiverse staff, especially those with dyslexia, and has led the development of training programs to help managers better support their teams. Her dedication and hands-on approach have earned widespread appreciation across the organisation.
Pauline’s work has strengthened NEAS operationally and culturally, making her a true unsung hero who consistently goes above and beyond for both patients and staff.
Unsung Hero
Brian Taylor
Brian Taylor is a true unsung hero within the North East Ambulance Service. Known for his kindness, creativity, and dedication, Brian has converted an old HART vehicle into a fully stocked welfare van, providing ambulance crews with hot drinks, snacks, and essential supplies during their shifts. His efforts help reduce crew downtime and boost morale, ensuring teams are refreshed and ready to deliver excellent patient care.
Beyond the van, Brian supports colleagues during fitness tests with encouragement and positivity. His friendly presence and thoughtful actions make a real difference in the wellbeing of staff, earning him widespread appreciation. Brian’s selfless commitment and inventive approach exemplify the spirit of service that drives NEAS forward.
Patients’ Choice
Rachel Clarke and Gary McKenzie
Rachel and Gary acted quickly and compassionately to save a woman from climbing over the railings of a busy flyover bridge near James Cook University Hospital.
Spotting the danger while transporting a patient, they pulled over and intervened immediately, preventing a potential tragedy. Their swift action was praised by both witnesses and hospital staff, highlighting their dedication and care beyond their usual duties.
Rachel and Gary’s brave and thoughtful response truly embodies the values of the North East Ambulance Service.
Hope Burrows, Annabel Faulkner, Bobbie Dove, and Lauren Schofield
Hope, Annabel, Bobbie, and Lauren were recognised for their quick, compassionate care when they saved a young patient, Hollie, who had stopped breathing after a seizure. They acted swiftly to stabilise her at home and transport her to hospital.
The team went above and beyond by returning later to check on Hollie and support her family, providing comfort during a difficult time. Their actions exemplify the dedication and compassion of the North East Ambulance Service.
Chair’s Rising Star
Farhan Shah
Farhan has shown exceptional dedication and resilience as a key member of the North East Ambulance Service. Handling over 600 calls monthly, he consistently delivers outstanding patient care with a positive attitude that inspires colleagues.
Despite facing racial abuse from a caller, Farhan responded with courage and professionalism. He reported the incident, shared his experience to raise awareness, and chose restorative justice to promote understanding and change. His actions have helped improve NEAS’s response to hate crimes, fostering a safer, more inclusive workplace.
Judges praised Farhan’s bravery, commitment to NEAS values, and leadership under difficult circumstances. His story is a powerful example of compassion and strength, making him a deserving winner of the Chair’s Rising Star Award.