The RailStaff Awards 2024

Nominations for Rail Person of the Year

Sue Gazzard

Said the following about Paul Dennis:

“Paul is a conductor/guard but also a local and company council union rep. As a rep, he goes way beyond what is expected. He is on call 24/7 for his members. He never refuses to help and always spends his own time researching, supporting and guiding any member who needs his help. He works tirelessly to ensure we have the best support possible-not just when there are disciplinary issues but also supports people through illness, personal issues and ensures fair treatment of all.

This is to his huge credit as he also has a wife and family to look after who must miss out as he dedicates so much of his time to his colleagues.

Paul is a true railway man through and through and definitely deserves recognition for his selflessness, his dedication and the way that he does everything with a smile on his face. His enthusiasm is infectious and he makes a point of sharing that with all his colleagues.“

Ian Thomas

Said the following about Paul Dennis:

“I have only been Paul's direct manager for the last year however the depot has faced a number of people with very difficult personal circumstances around their long term health or employment.

Paul is dealing with something quite unfortunate in his family life but he is still always available for anyone who needs him. I have had people tell me that he has been on the phone with them in the early hours helping and comforting them

He has recently completed a sponsored walk to raise money for lukemia research and is very active in promoting the reformed social club at the depot. Yet he still finds time to help others, which has lead to a number of nominations for our reward scheme to recognise the support he gives.“

Karim Belhaddad

Said the following about Paul Dennis:

“I would like to nominate Paul for his overall contribution to the Depot at Gillingham. He is a very caring for person that goes beyond the normal duty when it comes to assisting his colleagues. This is evident in his support for recent colleagues who have had serious medical issues and Paul has assisted greatly. He often take the time to call staff and check on their welfare and I know this is very much appreciated by all. This, despite his own personal issues with his brother battling cancer.“

Aaron Wilson

Said the following about Paul Dennis:

“Although I am no longer employed by Southeastern I would like to nominate Paul Dennis for an award for the help and support he has given me during my time at the company, I've had many personal traumas both in the past and with recent events and without his support and continued help as a friend and company council rep I would be in a much darker place than I am today, I strongly feel he deserves some form of recognition.“

Brian King

Said the following about Paul Dennis:

“He is always happy and announcements on train are a happy sound in the mornings“

Finbarr Pierce

Said the following about Paul Dennis:

“Paul is a great rep and a great person. His passion and enthusiasm is exceptional.“

Whitney Judd

Said the following about Paul Dennis:

“I nominate Paul Dennis because he does everything for everyone and is a great asset to Southeastern“

Daniel O'Sullivan

Said the following about Paul Dennis:

“I got cancer, and having an operation on the 16th at Royal Marsden Hospital. Paul been there for me from day one, ringing and texting me to see how I am doing in his own time. He deserves this award“

Anneliese Reid

Said the following about Paul Dennis:

“All round top bloke. Always there to support his colleagues and goes above and beyond in all he does“

Paul Lancaster

Said the following about Paul Dennis:

“Works hard raising money for others“

Steve Dennis

Said the following about Paul Dennis:

“I would like to nominate Paul for this award he is an outstanding member within the company and our depot. I know he is my younger brother but he has helped me so much with my chronic myeloid leukaemia to which I had to take ill health retirement. Paul's always there for 24/7, Paul is very committed to the welfare of his colleagues and family“

Carol O'Connor

Said the following about Paul Dennis:

“He is a great supporter of his colleagues and is always ready to offer help and advise . He is also passionate about his passengers wanting to offer the best service and a great journey.“

Francesca Sharp

Said the following about Paul Dennis:

“I nominate Paul Dennis for railway person of the year. Paul is a very easy going very helpful person and has a lot of respect in and out of the RMT community. When I have had to use the union previously Paul has been superb with handling the case. Quickly, fairly and honestly. I 100% nominate Paul Dennis for rail person of the year.“

Rin Shubert

Said the following about Paul Dennis:

“Paul is passionate about his role as a conductor. He always has a smile for his passengers and entertaining announcements, nothing is ever too much trouble and he's always there willing to help.

His strength of character and dedication are an asset to the railway and its employee's, his empathy and genuine support is a lifeline to many.

He is an Inspiration to colleagues, a professional customer focused staff member and dedicated family man“