Nigel Pollitt and Kooberin 'Scooby' Naidoo have brought a combined total of 85 years of expertise and dedication to emergency care to an end with their retirement from the South East Coast Ambulance Service (Secamb). Mr Pollitt, who served for 48 years, and Mr Naidoo, who completed 37 years, handed over their duties at Banstead OU after a remarkable career marked by significant changes in the ambulance service.
During their time with Secamb – which began when the Surrey Ambulance Service merged with other services to form the trust in 2006 – both paramedics witnessed firsthand the growing recognition of the paramedic role within the medical community and among the public. Mr Pollitt, who joined as a Grade 2 ambulance man in May 1978, recalled how far the profession has come in terms of respect: 'The paramedic role was initially seen as a stepping stone to nursing or other careers,' he noted. In contrast, today's paramedics are valued as highly skilled professionals.' Mr Naidoo, who joined in January 1989 and completed his paramedic qualifications six years later, echoed this sentiment.
Vicky Knights, Head of Operations at Banstead OU, paid tribute to the pair, describing them as 'stalwarts' whose professionalism has been a consistent source of reassurance for patients. Chief Paramedic Officer Jaqui Lindridge and Deputy Chief Paramedic Officer Michael Bradfield also sent their well-wishes as Mr Pollitt and Mr Naidoo completed their final shift.
Reflecting on their careers, both paramedics acknowledged the substantial increase in workload and pressures faced by ambulance services over recent years. Mr Naidoo highlighted the importance of teamwork: 'Allowing crewmates to work consistently together could make a significant difference in patient outcomes and staff welfare,' he suggested. This emphasis on team cohesion underscores the critical need for NHS trusts to find solutions to staff retention, especially given rising demand for emergency care services across the UK.
With their retirement, both Nigel Pollitt and Kooberin Naidoo look forward to enjoying a well-deserved break from their demanding roles. Mr Naidoo is eager to relax and pursue long-abandoned hobbies, while Mr Pollitt plans to spend more time with family, follow Surrey cricket at The Oval, and take more holidays.