Paul Thomas Lawson with 2020 Ray Collins Award Winners Trophy
Paul Thomas Lawson was declared as the winner of the 2020 Ray Collins Award.

The manufacturer and supplier of a range of mobility and moving and handling equipment, Care & Independence, has launched a new award in honour of a valued employee who passed away at the height of the COVID-19 pandemic.

The award, which recognises staff excellence, was named after the company’s Area Sales Manager for south east England, who passed away after contracting COVID-19.

As part memorial and as part of the company’s ongoing journey of continuous improvement and excellence, the annual Ray Collins Award recognises outstanding contribution towards delivering a world class customer experience.

Ian Jones, Managing Director of Care & Independence commented: “2020 was undoubtedly a challenging time for us as a business plus the upsetting news about Ray really brought home how we as individuals could be so affected in our personal lives too..

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Paul Thomas Lawson
Paul Thomas Lawson (right) accepting the 2020 Ray Collins Award Winners Trophy from James Bennett.

“At times I have been overwhelmed by the way in which every staff member stepped up to the mark and contributed that extra mile to keep the business running smoothly during such an unprecedented period.

“It is only fitting that we officially recognize staff for their tremendous efforts – the hard part is in selecting just one winner.”

The inaugural Ray Collins Award took place this month and, due to covid-restrictions, the five shortlisted staff from amongst numerous nominees were notified in a number of ways, either by their line manager, via video-call or in a socially distanced announcement amongst their teams.

Paul Thomas Lawson, Deputy Regional Sales Manager (North), was declared as the eventual winner, with Sales and Marketing Director, James Bennett, announcing the outcome during a major sales team product launch.

Paul was cited in particular for his consistent willingness to go above and beyond throughout a relentless schedule of activity across the spring and summer of 2020, when he was in effect covering over half the country and responding remotely, nationally.

Paul receives a trophy, two additional days holiday and the choice from three prizes. Shortlisted candidates each receive a bespoke glass crystal paperweight.

Other shortlisted candidates included Louise Pink – Production Operative, Steve Edwards – Workshop Supervisor, Keri Brookes – Accounts Assistant and Emily Sones – Sales Administrator Supervisor.

Oxfordshire-headquartered Care & Independence manufactures slings, shower chairs and cradles and stretchers, alongside selling a varied range of mobility aids and products to hospitals, nursing and residential homes and private customers.

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https://thiis.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2021/04/Paul-Thomas-Lawson-with-2020-Ray-Collins-Award-Winners-Trophy-cropped.jpghttps://thiis.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2021/04/Paul-Thomas-Lawson-with-2020-Ray-Collins-Award-Winners-Trophy-cropped-150x150.jpgLiane McIvorAwards & AchievementsNewsroomSupplier NewsTrade NewsCare & Independence,handling equipment,Ian Jones,Mobility,Paul Thomas Lawson,Ray Collins AwardThe manufacturer and supplier of a range of mobility and moving and handling equipment, Care & Independence, has launched a new award in honour of a valued employee who passed away at the height of the COVID-19 pandemic. The award, which recognises staff excellence, was named after the company’s Area...News, views & products for mobility, access and independent living professionals