A Safe and Well Officer with Essex County Fire and Rescue Service has been recognised for her care and compassion after stepping in to help a distressed driver following a road traffic incident in Southend.

Ginette Braithwaite, who works in the Service’s Prevention Team, was on duty when she saw the aftermath of the incident.

Realising the driver was visibly shaken, she stopped to offer help and reassurance.

Ginette followed the driver for several miles to ensure they arrived home safely.

Once home, she helped them settle into a chair, made a cup of tea and stayed until they felt calm and reassured.

Ginette  also drew on her knowledge of local services to provide ongoing support, including arranging a personal careline device that quickly connects people to their next of kin in an emergency. She followed up to ensure the support was in place.

In recognition of her outstanding impact on the Service, Ginette has received an Essex County Fire and Rescue Service Quarterly Award.

Ginette said: “You never know the impact an incident can have on someone.

“For me it was about care and reassurance – making sure they got home safely, felt calm and had the right support afterwards. That’s what our Service is all about.”

Ginette’s colleagues, who nominated her for a Quarterly Award, added: “Ginette’s actions that afternoon and the way she has followed up exemplify her professionalism, awareness and compassion for others in the community and are a real asset to our Service.

“Ginette’s impact has shone our Service in such a positive light. She went over and above in her role and her knowledge of the services available to members of the community is exemplary.”

Andrea MacAlister, Head of Prevention at Essex County Fire and Rescue Service, added: “Ginette’s response was instinctive and compassionate. 

“By putting someone else’s wellbeing first and staying with them until they felt safe, Ginette showed exactly what public service at its best looks like. 

“Ginette’s actions embody the values we hold as a Service – compassion, professionalism and a commitment to supporting our communities when they need us most.”

The Quarterly Awards are decided by staff and celebrate colleagues who live the Service’s values of compassion, courage, high performance and teamwork.

Ginette’s story shows how simple acts of kindness and professionalism can make a lasting difference in people’s lives.