TICA

Trade association ACAD, which represents companies working in the asbestos industry, held its annual awards dinner during which they presented the inaugural Supervisor of the Year Award which recognises individual excellence.

A judging panel made up of representatives of ACAD, sponsor the Independent Asbestos Training Providers (IATP) together with Mavis Nye of the Mavis Nye Foundation presented the coveted award to Richard McHugh.

An Asbestos Supervisor for Altrad, the award recognised his exceptional performance as a senior asbestos supervisor and his dedication to delivering outstanding support services at Ratcliffe power station in Nottinghamshire.

He was also selected for his work in the community, setting up a men’s mental health support group ‘In Sam’s Name’ that provides men in the Bassetlaw area of Nottinghamshire, with a safe and confidential space where they can talk and find strength through mutual support.

Inspired by the death of his friend Sam Fisher, who struggled with mental health issues, the group has made a significant impact by encouraging open dialogue and breaking down the stigma surrounding mental health. Following its success, Sam’s mother Gill and a family friend set up a similar peer support group for women in the area.

The awards event was held at Hellidon Lakesand included former England and Liverpool star John Barnes MBE as guest speaker.

The others shortlisted for the award were:

• Keith Postill, representing Safe Asbestos Removal
• Mark Barnett, representing Green Contract Services
• Phil Dupplaw, representing Shield Environmental Services

The judging panel expressed deep admiration for the shortlisted supervisors, highlighting their remarkable contributions, such as mentoring new talent, overcoming personal challenges, and successfully executing complex projects.

Graham Warren, ACAD manager, said: “The judges found it incredibly challenging to choose a winner due to the wealth of positive examples.

“In the end, Richard McHugh, proudly representing Altrad, emerged as the deserving winner of the Supervisor of the Year award. His exceptional performance and dedication to delivering outstanding support services for his client at Ratcliffe power station set him apart.

“Furthermore, his admirable work outside of his role in establishing “In Sam’s Name” following the tragic loss of his close friend to mental health issues, exemplifies his dedication to making a positive difference.

“ACAD proudly supports the efforts of Richard McHugh and commends his commitment to excellence and advocacy for mental health awareness.”

NEWS RELEASE: ISSUED ON BEHALF OF ACAD

For further information contact Andrew Douglas on 01325 363436

Photo caption: left to right: Guest speaker John Barnes MBE, Richard McHugh, IATP director Neil Hardy and ACAD manager Graham Warren

Editors’ Notes:

ACAD is a UK-based trade association, which supports and represents companies working throughout the asbestos removal industry. ACAD provides first class asbestos training, assesses NVQ via their award winning SQA centre, and administers the CSCS affiliated ACAD Skill Card for the asbestos industry