Facilities boss receives outstanding contribution award

A trainee chef who worked his way up to head of facilities has been honoured for his outstanding contribution to the NHS.

Richard Walker, described as “exceptional”, has worked across the Southampton and Portsmouth health areas for the past 46 years – and with only three days off sick.

Now his incredible dedication has been recognised with an outstanding achievement award from Solent NHS Trust.

Mark Young, Deputy Director of Estates and Facilities, who presented the accolade, said: “Richard is quite exceptional in his attitude and approach. He always goes above and beyond in everything he does and is very well regarded by everyone who knows him.

“He is hugely appreciated, and this award really is just a token of recognition for everything he has done, and continues to do, on a daily basis.”

Richard’s NHS career began in 1978 when he embarked on a four-year chef apprenticeship at Knowle Hospital near Fareham, where he went on to become head chef.

He then moved into hotel services and worked at several Hampshire sites including Knowle, Ravenswood House, Tatchbury Mount near Totton, Moorgreen at West End , Southampton General Hospital and Western Community Hospital in Southampton.

In the late 1990s, Richard moved into facilities management and in 2008 was appointed head of facilities for Southampton City Primary Care Trust and later Solent NHS Trust, when he took on Portsmouth as well as Southampton.

Richard’s award nomination said: “Over the years, Richard has accumulated a wealth of knowledge and is always happy to share with newer members of the team.

“Even though he is head of a department, Richard always has time for everyone. He has been very supportive and encouraging and has always been a champion of the department.

“Richard has always been keen for staff to progress and encourages us to undertake any courses or external training qualifications, and he never takes credit for work that his team has done. He likes to stay out of the limelight but his contribution to Solent should be recognised.”

Richard was presented with a framed certificate, badge and voucher from Solent NHS Trust.

He said: “I am very proud to receive this but have always said it is your team who can make or break you, and I have been very lucky to work with such amazing people over the years. It is just like a big family really.”