Meals provider Apetito crowns Estates & Facilities Competition winners

Aimed at recognising the essential work carried out by those working across the Healthcare Estates and Facilities (E&F) professions, the competition asked hospitals to nominate individuals and teams that they feel are the unsung heroes of their E&F departments.

With record entries from right across the sector, the independent panel of judges consisting of Phil Shelley, Alison McCree, Amanda Roberts and Neil Hargreaves paid tribute to the winning entrants citing their ‘standout performance’ which went far beyond the extra mile.

This year’s winners have all been presented with a luxury Fortnum and Mason hamper by team members from Apetito, supporting each hospital’s celebrations of the National E&F Day. The winners include:

• Making a Real Difference Winner: Paul Jackson, porter at James Cook University Hospital, Serco
• Leading the Way Winner: Derek James, head chef at Yeovil District Hospital
• Catering Champion Winner: Stephanie Doyle, catering manager at Yeovil District Hospital
• Rising Star Winner: Ian Powell, fire safety advisor at University Hospitals of Liverpool Group
• Innovation Excellence Winner: Thomas Lait, deputy head of estates at Yeovil District Hospital
• Team of the Year Winner: community facilities team at Somerset NHS Foundation Trust

Hargreaves, general manager of healthcare at Apetito, said: “This year’s competition was nothing short of inspiring. We were blown away by the wealth of brilliant entries and all the impactful stories shared.

“The submissions are a true testament to the dedication and important work happening across Estates and Facilities departments nationwide. A huge congratulations to all our winners and to everyone who made the shortlist – you should be incredibly proud. We hope you have all enjoyed every moment of recognition this National Estates and Facilities Day.”