A paramedic who founded a community group during lockdown to help key workers has been given a special award at his graduation ceremony.
Richard Francis, 36, set up community support group Leave A Light On to help key workers and people experiencing difficulties during the pandemic.
The group initially delivered hampers to those in need, but it has continued to expand due to increasing demand.
He was given the Spirit of Cumbria award during the University of Cumbria’s graduation ceremonies, recognising the significant contribution his charitable work has made.
Richard graduated with Dip HE paramedic practice. The ceremony took place more than 18 months after he qualified as a paramedic due to the pandemic halting the ceremonies until earlier this year.
The Spirit of Cumbria award recognises people who exemplify the university’s values of progressive, passionate, supportive, or personal and who are exceptional role models to the community.
Richard said: “I never expected this award or at this time. It has been a bit overwhelming at times, especially being up on stage and hearing those kind words about me, it means a lot.
“I’d like to give special thanks to all the volunteers that have been integral in keeping the group growing and a special thanks to my wife, Marina Mackay, for her support along the way.”
Initially, Richard thought the group would be a short-term response to the pandemic but it has continued. It now helps anyone in need, collect and distribute furniture, signpost people to community services such as mental health support and food banks and run their own counselling service and even rescue wildlife in need.
As part of his vision for its future, Richard would like to see the equivalent of an A&E department for mental health problems set up, as he believes dedicated support is vital.
Richard still leads the group despite working full-time as an on-call paramedic for the Scottish Ambulance Service.
Richard estimates that the group has helped 5,000 people in Cumbria. His efforts have been recognised with several awards, including a Point of Light award from then Prime Minister Boris Johnston.
The group will be celebrating its 1,000th day this month. The charity is now being supported by local businesses so the financial future of the group is more secure for now.
Tom Davidson, director for Centre for Excellence in Paramedic Practice at the University of Cumbria, said: “By setting up the group, Richards has gone far beyond what most people would or could do, especially as he has such a demanding job as a paramedic. Richard has an inherent drive to help others and is more than worthy of the Spirit of Cumbria award.”
Richard is from Essex originally and moved to Cumbria when he was 15.
The university’s winter graduation ceremonies took place at Carlisle Cathedral last month. More than 1,200 University of Cumbria graduands celebrated their academic achievements in nine different graduation ceremonies which took place at Carlisle Cathedral.
Alongside the students, three public figures were also recognised at the ceremonies for their achievements and contributions.
Professor Kath McCourt CBE FRCN, Deputy Chair at Newcastle Upon Tyne Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust, was awarded an Honorary Doctorate, the university’s highest honour.
Marcia Reid Fotheringham, former High Sheriff of Cumbria, was made an Honorary Fellow. As was Brian Higgins, an international songwriter, formally of Whitehaven, who is responsible for multitudes of chart pop hits, including Cher’s Believe and various Girls Aloud songs.
