COMMENDEE 2024-25

Initial Recommendation

This nomination followed an initial recommendation from Ian Beckett, Head of Business Assurance

Roger is a beacon of care and compassion, he continues to leave an indelible mark on our team. His unwavering commitment to our staff and the well-being of others is nothing short of inspiring.

1. The Heart of Compassion: Roger’s heart beats in sync with the needs of our staff. His empathy knows no bounds, and he consistently goes above and beyond to ensure their welfare. Whether it’s a simple phone call or orchestrating crucial meetings, Roger’s caring touch is felt by all.
2. Architect of Support: Roger pioneered our Care Team provision, laying its foundation and nurturing it since its inception. His leadership has transformed it into a lifeline for our team members, providing solace during challenging times.
3. The TRIM Trailblazer: Roger’s fingerprints are all over our TRIM (Trauma Risk Management) program. His implementation of this vital resource has helped our staff cope with stress, build resilience, and find healing amidst the demands of their roles.
4. Building Bridges: Roger understands the power of positive connections. Beyond office hours, he orchestrates social events, weaving a tight-knit fabric of camaraderie among our colleagues. His gatherings are more than mere get-togethers—they’re moments of rejuvenation and shared laughter.
5. A Veteran’s Legacy: Roger’s ex-military background—though shrouded in mystery—speaks volumes. As a Veterans in Custody Lead, he ensured that prisoners in Portland accessed the support they needed. His dedication transcends boundaries, bridging the gap between service and compassion.
6. Honouring the Fallen: Every 11th of November, Roger orchestrates a solemn service, allowing both staff and prisoners to pay their respects. His reverence for tradition and remembrance binds us together, reminding us of our shared humanity.
7. Guiding New Colleagues: As our mentor, Roger welcomes fresh faces with open arms. His induction process is more than paperwork—it’s a warm embrace, ensuring that every staff member feels seen, valued, and part of our family.
8. Medals of Appreciation: Roger’s commitment extends to celebrating achievements. Staff ceremonies, where coronation and jubilee medals are bestowed, are his canvas for recognition. His belief in acknowledging hard work uplifts our operational heroes.

Roger’s story isn’t just about accomplishments; it’s about the quiet acts of kindness that ripple through our workplace. He reminds us that leadership isn’t about titles—it’s about touching lives. Roger, our unsung hero, continues to inspire us all.

Supporting Documentation

Testimonials

From Head of Safety –

Roger has been here for the 11 yrs I have been at Portland in a range of roles, including Residence and OMU. But the one role stands out for me and that is one he completes voluntary outside of his business-as-usual tasks and that is the Care team.

Roger will take calls in and out of work, visit staff and be a leader on all things relating to care and welfare, this work is unmeasurable on a performance chart but is measurable on the positive feedback staff give around the level of care Roger personally gives all at Portland.

This work over arches into the community, such as putting on events so staff can show off their place of work to friends and family, Roger is arranging his 5th event, each to date has been attended by over 150 people every time

Roger coordinates the regional care team meetings, picking locations and getting a multitude of Staff together to discuss and work through current themes and issues within HMPPS, he does this alongside his work with veterans in custody and linking in with L&D who he has eventually moved across to work for on a full-time basis.  Despite this full time role Roger still gives that local support to Portland staff.

From a new Officer –

Roger’s support to me throughout my Officer training period has been massive support.  Although I know Roger outside of work, his support inside and outside to all staff is invaluable.  On a number of occasions he was there for me in the evenings during my training period.

Roger provides this support to all staff and Roger regularly reiterates to anyone that his door is always open.  This is even more evident when he accepts phone calls outside of his working hours.

Sign Off

I am completely supportive of this application, Roger has made such a huge difference to all the staff at Portland, his care and compassion are second to none.

I would like to give a recent example of a colleague who at the age of 53 has been diagnosed with Alzheimer’s, Roger arranged a staff event and using his persuasive manner convinced me and members of my leadership team to part with large sums of money providing raffle prizes for the function.  The evening raised £2000 for the member of staff and his family, enabling a family holiday.

Roger is a selfless man who does not like to be in the limelight, in my opinion he would be a very worthy recipient of a Butler Trust Award.

Pete Lewis

Governor, HMP Portland