Robbie Burns

Said the following about Paul Stanford:

“I am nominating Paul in recognition of his personal contribution in this area and in particular, in response to an incident in which Paul's direct intervention in all likelihood saved the life of one of our passengers.

On the 13th May 2015, I received an e-mail from Richard Rowland of First Great Western. Richard explained that he had been travelling with Paul on the 20.45 from Paddington. Near Reading a fellow passenger left his seat, moving to the back of the train. A couple sitting next to him were concerned for his welfare having seen a suicide note left with his belongings on the table. It then appeared the man was preparing to jump from the train window. Paul immediately went to the back of the train to speak with him. (I subsequently learnt that Paul had spoken with the man and encouraged him not to jump, sharing his own personal experiences in order to seek to dissuade him from doing so). Richard went on to say that Paul's actions were invaluable, not only in all likelihood saving the man's life; but also freeing the train manager to reassure the other passengers and contact the BTP whilst Paul supported the man in his distress.

I was with Paul on Thursday and Friday of that week and at no time did he discuss this with me. It was only when I came to Richard's e-mail that I was made aware of Paul's actions. Paul not only showed great compassion in this incident but also demonstrated (once again) his preparedness to get involved and take personal accountability. I can not think of a more fitting example of a colleague who is always prepared to do everything he can to ensure everyone gets home safely, every day.

Paul believes in and actively demonstrates the "capacity we have as individuals to care for the welfare of others and the difference that each of us and potentially make".“