I am pleased to nominate Paul Nevitt, Security Supervisor with the Lodge Security Team at Spinning Gate Shopping Centre in Leigh, for the Victim Support Award, in recognition of his exceptional actions and unwavering commitment in critical situations.
Paul has been an incredible ambassador within the local community, receiving repeated praise from shoppers, businesses, and stakeholders for his professionalism and dedication. However, it is his leadership and response in high-pressure situations over the past year that truly highlight his outstanding qualities.
In October 2024, while conducting his usual patrol, Paul noticed a gathering in the mall and approached to investigate. He discovered an elderly gentleman who had fallen seriously unwell and tragically suffered a cardiac arrest. Without hesitation, Paul rushed into action, immediately relaying information to the emergency services operator, while also administering first aid and using the onsite defibrillator. Despite his best efforts, the gentleman later passed away in hospital. Although understandably shaken by the outcome, Paul received heartfelt thanks from the man’s family for his professionalism and perseverance.
The emotional impact of this situation affected Paul deeply. As a team, we openly discussed the incident, sharing what we admired about his response, and giving Paul the space to express his thoughts and process his emotions. This open dialogue helped Paul come to terms with the experience. A couple of months later, Paul was the first responder to another medical emergency. True to form, he acted without hesitation, providing first aid with empathy and professionalism. The individual involved later sent a message expressing deep gratitude, saying they “owed Paul everything.” Paul humbly responded, “My SIA training kicked in and I acted on instinct,” but to us, he is undeniably a hero.
In addition to his remarkable personal responses, Paul has played a pivotal role in supporting his colleagues. As frontline security officers, we are often the first to arrive at an emergency, and we are looked to for help and leadership. Paul’s bravery in using his experiences to guide and prepare others is a source of immense pride. He regularly reflects with the team on the emotional toll of these situations, helping to foster an open environment where colleagues can share their feelings. This approach has created a supportive and resilient team, empowering all of us to handle similar challenges with confidence.
In January 2025, we received a message from a grateful mother in a local Facebook group, thanking the “Security Man” who had intervened when her young son was assaulted outside the local bus station. I immediately knew it was Paul. A quick phone call confirmed it. The mother explained that her 11-year-old autistic son had been dragged aside, punched, and pinned by a group of older boys. A passerby alerted Paul, who swiftly intervened, chasing the group away. Paul then brought the young boy back to the shopping centre, where he worked with staff to contact the mother and explain the situation. He stayed with the boy, providing reassurance, and ensured the boy safely reunited with his mother. The mother was extremely grateful, and we were all incredibly proud of Paul’s swift and compassionate response.
As a family-run business with values at our core, these actions mean everything to us. The Shopping Centre Manager also recognised Paul’s contribution, saying, “Having such a compassionate and personable approach from Paul and the entire Lodge team, right through to senior leadership, really sets us apart as a security contractor and makes a real difference. Thank you.”
Paul’s actions reflect the highest standards of professionalism, compassion, and leadership. His calm, decisive responses in both medical and security emergencies make him a pillar of support for both his colleagues and the community. Paul has become a role model for the team, demonstrating what it means to act with integrity and care in every situation.
We believe Paul Nevitt is truly deserving of the Emergency Response Award. His exceptional ability to handle difficult situations, his emotional resilience, and his unwavering commitment to the safety and well-being of those around him are qualities that make him an outstanding candidate for this recognition.
Congratulations, Paul, for all that you do. You are a hero to us all, and we are proud to nominate you for this award.