Gloucestershire County Council has recognised the extraordinary dedication of 17 staff members from the Gloucestershire Equipment Loan Service (GELS), who together have clocked up an incredible 564 years of service.
A special Long Service Awards event was held on Friday 7 November, celebrating colleagues who have each dedicated between 25 and 41 years to the service. The long-serving staff were thanked for their outstanding commitment, care and professionalism over decades of change.
GELS provides vital equipment to help people across the county live independently and safely at home, or to regain independence after a hospital stay. The service also champions inclusivity in employment, supporting people with disabilities to build meaningful and long-term careers.
The celebration was hosted by Sarah Scott, Executive Director of Adult Social Care, who personally thanked each colleague and presented them with certificates.
Andrew Watts, Refurbishment Lead, who joined GELS in 1995, said: “I’ve always been extremely proud to be part of the service we provide to the community. I genuinely enjoy working alongside colleagues who share the same passion and commitment to delivering the highest standard of service.”
GELS Operations Manager, Josie Sparaco, praised her team’s dedication: “Their loyalty and expertise have been instrumental in our success. In a time when recruitment and retention are so important, their service shows the value of investing in people and creating a workplace where individuals choose to stay and grow.”
Cllr Dr Kate Usmar, cabinet member for adults’ support and independence, added: “We’re proud to celebrate 17 incredible colleagues who have given between 25 and 41 years of service. Their work has made a lasting difference to people’s lives, helping residents live safely and independently at home.”