Published on: 26 April 2024
A Maintenance Technician at Derbyshire Healthcare NHS Foundation Trust has received a 40 years of service award for his service in the NHS this week. 
Martin Burton recently received his 40 Years’ Service Award from Chief Executive, Mark Powell. This is a particularly special award which recognises the dedication and valuable contribution of employees over the course of their NHS careers.
In 1984, Martin commenced in his first NHS post and has worked for the Trust’s Estates and Facilities Management department ever since. Martin has worked as a Maintenance Technician for 40 years from February this year.
Martin was 26 years old when he first joined the NHS at what used to be known as Pastures Hospital, having developed an interest in maintenance from a young age where he first commenced in plumbing and heating at Derby City Council at apprenticeship level. Martin moved to the Kingsway site in Derby when Pastures closed and he has enjoyed working in site maintenance ever since.
Mark Powell, Chief Executive at Derbyshire Healthcare, visited Martin to thank him for all his hard work over the last 40 years, he said: “Martin is a familiar face around the Trust. No job has ever been too big or too small for Martin, he has been a fantastic colleague to have as part of Derbyshire Healthcare.
“This award is a great opportunity to recognise the dedication of hardworking NHS employees, like Martin, who go the extra mile continuously.”
“A lot has changed since I first started working here,” said Martin. “I have worked with steam and coal boilers to now gas, which was an interesting change. I have also worked with many different people across the Trust from patients to colleagues, contractors to visitors – no two days are every the same.
“The NHS, particularly this Trust, has felt like a home for the last 40 years. It is a huge achievement to say I have reached 40 years in this role – I have met some fantastic people over the years, particularly those within the Estates and Facilities Management department.
“My proudest achievement is receiving Employee of the Year in 2009 for reducing stigma in mental health and raising public awareness of mental health issues.”
Martin plans to retire and return on a part-time basis soon so he can continue working in the job he loves, dedicate more time to his family and friends, as well as spending more time visiting Norfolk.
