Local lifeguard recognised at one of the UK’s top 50 workers
Local lifeguard, Janet Appleyard has been honoured as one of Britain’s best older workers in People Management magazine’s top 50 over 50 workers.
Janet, 61, came 7th in the prestigious awards, which included names like Prof. Stephen Hawkins, as well as a Lord, a Dame, doctors, a surgeon, a barrister and campaigners.
The awards, which are voted for by the public, include an eclectic mix of professions, sectors, experiences and ages. “I am in with the elite,” said Janet, who works for Oldham Community Leisure, as Sports Centre Team Leader. “I was amazed to feature in the list at all, let alone alongside such distinguished individuals.”
Janet has worked for Oldham Community Leisure for 24 years, becoming a pool lifeguard back in 1994 when the cafe at the leisure centre where she worked as a cleaner closed. At this stage Janet couldn’t even swim, but resolved to confront her fears so she could carry on working at the centre in a different capacity.
“I was frightened of the water,” she said. “I couldn’t touch the bottom – I couldn’t do anything. But I just love the leisure industry and I’ve always had that little bit inside me that, if I want something, I always go for it. Even if I fail, I’ve tried. I don’t relish the thought of retirement because I love work. It’s part of me.”
It took Janet around a year to learn to swim, and now she can swim 100 metres without stopping, travel 50 metres in under a minute and surface dive to retrieve an object from the deep end of a swimming pool. But Janet’s talents aren’t limited to swimming: she’s also a qualified gym instructor, trampoline coach and excellent ice skater.
The judges were particularly impressed by Janet’s motivation to stay active, and it doesn’t look like that will change anytime soon.
“We believe they represent the very best of what older employees have to offer the modern workplace, and should serve as an inspiration to workers, managers and organisations alike to recognise and value their contribution to the British economy,” said Chris Ball, the Shaw Trust’s specialist adviser on the ageing workforce, who worked with the People Management editorial team to pick the top 50 employees from hundreds of public nominations.
“It was a pleasure to read so many stories that demonstrate the value of our older workforce,” he continued. “From those who have opted for a complete career change to the long-term employees who delight customers day in, day out, there are so many inspiring examples to draw on here.”
“Janet is an ambassador for our company and a great example of what can be achieved with hard work and commitment.” said Louise McGreal, Head of Human Resources for OCL. “Being reflected in the list rewards Janet and acknowledges her achievements. She has done exceptionally well to make the top ten and should be very proud. Janet is an excellent member of our team and I hope many of our current employees will follow in her footsteps, enjoying a long and satisfying career with OCL.”
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About Oldham Community Leisure
Oldham Community Leisure (OCL) is a community benefit society responsible for the management, operation and development of 14 sports centres, swimming pools and synthetic pitches in Oldham.
OCL’s vision is to create an environment in which sport, active recreation and leisure are integrated into the lifestyle of all Oldham citizens, in order that community cohesion and health benefits are continually improving.
