Elaine Janes

A “calm, reliable presence” and “brilliant” faculty coordinator at Reading College, Elaine Janes provides outstanding first aid and mental health support to students and staff, always with quiet professionalism and care, said her nominator for the Local Hero award sponsored by Green Park.

They said, in Reading town centre recently, Elaine noticed a member of the public who didn’t seem quite right.

“While many might have walked past – understandably unsure or hesitant – Elaine trusted her instincts.

“She stayed to check, quickly recognised the severity of the situation and acted with calm authority, placing the person in the recovery position, performing CPR and contacting emergency services.

“Her natural care for others and willingness to step in helped save a life.”

They added: “Elaine lives the values of our Learning Philosophy through her consistent, selfless actions. She is a colleague whose contributions are deeply valued, even if she never seeks recognition for them.”