Shining a spotlight on the teams behind the scenes

From keeping wards spotless to preparing meals, maintaining buildings and creating safe places to work, our Facilities Management and Estates Team colleagues support our workforce, sites and services all year round.

Today, we celebrate more than 250 colleagues, highlighting why they are described as the ‘backbone’ of KCHFT and the vital role they play in helping us deliver the best care for patients.

Click on the play button above to watch colleagues thank our estates and facilities teams.

Philip Griffiths, Director of Estates Optimisation, said: “We operate across a large and varied estate and it takes a huge team effort to keep everything running. While we may not always see this work happening, its impact is felt everywhere.

"I see first-hand the commitment, professionalism and pride our teams bring to their roles every day, often in challenging circumstances. The work they do makes a real and lasting difference to our patients, our colleagues and our services.”

Josh Mancini, Team Manager, Adult Clinical Services, said: “Estates plays a vital role in keeping our early support service, Home First, operational.

“By sourcing and securing safe and sustainable spaces at Dover Health Centre and Trinity House in Ashford the team has made sure we can deliver excellent patient care across the county for years to come.”

Joanne Hammerton, Facilities Manager, and AnneMarie Fletcher, Facilities Site Supervisor, said: “Our facilities and estates colleagues are the backbone of safe patient care.

“Much of their work happens quietly behind the scenes, but its value is felt every single day by patients and colleagues alike."

Caroline Essenhigh, Matron, Tonbridge Community Hospital, said: “Their commitment to keeping our wards clean, comfortable and safe, each and every day, is truly appreciated by us all.

“We also greatly value the support they give to our nursing teams. Whether it’s letting us know when a patient needs assistance, or raising a concern, their attentiveness helps people receive the care they need and feel safe throughout their stay.

“The time they spend with patients is equally important. Their friendly conversations, kindness, and respectful approach often provide comfort and companionship, helping to brighten someone’s day and support their emotional wellbeing.

“The care they take in providing meals that patients enjoy also has a positive impact. Good nutrition and hydration are such an important part of recovery, and their responsiveness to individual preferences helps make their experience that little bit better.”

Rebecca Waterson, FM Operations Manager, said: "Their hard work, professionalism, and dedication is invaluable and we commend them for their commitment to supporting one another.

“Together they have created a positive and collaborative culture, that is something to be proud of, and their contribution is greatly valued and appreciated."

Learn how our estates and facilities colleagues help us provide and maintain safe and sustainable spaces, which meet the needs of our colleagues and communities: Sustainability | Kent Community Health NHS Foundation Trust