Two EEAST staff honoured with King’s Ambulance Service Medal in Birthday Honours

Jemma Varela, Head of Clinical Operations for Suffolk and North East Essex, and Lee Umpleby, Senior Paramedic and Clinical Link Manager for the Canvey Island First Responders, have both been recognised for their exceptional service, leadership, and dedication to patient care and community wellbeing.

Jemma Varela: A Trailblazer in Clinical Leadership

Jemma Varela’s award recognises over two decades of distinguished service, marked by clinical excellence, innovation, and a deep commitment to staff wellbeing. Since joining EEAST in 2003, Jemma has held a variety of roles across Training and Education, Patient Safety, and Operational Management. Her leadership has been instrumental in raising standards of care across the region.

In addition to her role at EEAST, Jemma has served with distinction on air ambulances, including the East Anglian Air Ambulance and the Lincs and Notts Air Ambulance, where she continues to work. She also volunteers with Suffolk Accident Rescue Service. Notably, she was the first female critical care paramedic with East Anglian Air Ambulance.

Jemma holds a master’s degree in Critical Care from Cardiff University and is currently studying for an Executive MBA at Arden University

Jemma Varela said: “I am incredibly honoured to receive the King’s Ambulance Medal. This recognition is not just a personal milestone, but a reflection of the amazing teams I’ve had the privilege to work with throughout my career. I’m passionate about delivering the highest standards of patient care and supporting the wellbeing of our staff. I’m proud to be part of a service that makes such a meaningful difference every day.”

Lee Umpleby: Championing Community Response and Education

Lee Umpleby has been recognised for his outstanding contribution to community care and public education. With 20 years of service at EEAST, Lee has combined frontline paramedic work with a deep commitment to his local community in Canvey Island, Essex.

Since 2009, Lee has led Canvey Island Community First Responders (CFRs) , growing the team from two to 12 active volunteers who now respond to around 60 emergency calls per month. Under his leadership, the CFRs have trained over 7,000 people in basic life support, including more that 3,000 Secondary school students at Castle View and Cornelius Vermuyden School.

Lee Umpleby said: “I’m incredibly proud and humbled to receive the King’s Ambulance Medal. It’s a privilege to work alongside such dedicated colleagues at EEAST and with the Canvey Island First Responders, who consistently go above and beyond for our community. I’d especially like to thank my great friend and long-time crewmate, Jack Broomfield, whose support has been invaluable to both me and the group. I also want to recognise the incredible people of Canvey Island—our work simply wouldn’t be possible without their unwavering support.”

A message from the chief executive

Neill Moloney, Chief Executive of EEAST, said: “Jemma and Lee exemplify the very best of our service. Their leadership, compassion, and commitment to both patients and colleagues are truly inspiring. These awards are richly deserved, and we are incredibly proud to have them as part of the EEAST family.”

EEAST congratulates both Jemma and Lee on this remarkable achievement and thanks them for their continued service, leadership, and dedication to the communities they serve.