Wednesday 9 April was just another normal working day for Arthur Cristales, or so he thought.
As Housekeeper at Searle House, Hospiscare’s specialist ward in Exeter, Arthur began his shift as usual, knowing he had a meeting scheduled that afternoon with his manager.
The meeting was, in fact, an elaborate ruse to get Arthur in the right place at the right time to present him with a Community Award from Devon High Sheriff, Caroline Harlow.
In her role as High Sheriff, Caroline has the opportunity to bestow a small number of awards throughout the year to those who have made a significant impact on their local community. Arthur is the first person to be honoured in 2025.
Arthur going about his day-to-day work on the hospice ward at Searle House
Arthur recently celebrated 20 years of working for Hospiscare, the local hospice charity for Exeter, central and east Devon. In his time at the charity, he has made a difference to countless patients and their families, as well as staff and volunteers with his ever-present smile and sensitive nature.
After hearing about the difference Arthur makes, going above and beyond his role, Caroline contacted Arthur’s manager and together, a top-secret award presentation was arranged.
Sharon Ewart, Estates Manager at Hospiscare, explains “I invited Arthur to a made-up meeting to ensure he was in the right place at the right time. When Caroline appeared, his reaction was priceless!
“Arthur is best known for his lovely smile and empathetic nature that he exudes to all patients, visitors and staff. He leaves a lasting impression, with his name regularly mentioned in thank you cards and letters from patients and their families, as well as feedback forms from our visitors.”
From left to right: Arthur’s supervisor, Val Sheen, High Sheriff Caroline Harlow, Housekeeper Arthur Cristales and Estates Manager, Sharon Ewart
Arthur says, “My family are so happy and proud of me. I’m proud of myself as well. I can’t believe it – it’s a once in a lifetime achievement. This is my 20th year working at Hospiscare, so it feels truly special.
“When a workplace is positive and treats you well, you work harder. You want to do more. Hospiscare is an incredible place to work.
“I don’t expect to make a difference, but I always try. I laugh with the patients and when they say things like ‘it’s nice to see you in the morning’ or ‘you make my day; you make my spirit lift’ it does make all the difference.”
Sharon concludes, “Arthur is very much loved and respected amongst his colleagues for his kindness and generosity. I recently had the pleasure of receiving this feedback from a patient`s family: `Everyone we have had contact with is special, but there is just something about Arthur that is a little bit of stardust.’”
