Stan Spooner

Summary of Involvement in Health, Well-being in Many Environments

I was born, grew up, and lived in Portsmouth. Joined the RAF as an Administrative Apprentice and was the top Apprentice in 1958. My last assignment was as Officer Commanding the Careers Office in Portsmouth.

I was awarded an Air Officer Commendation in 1968 for my work with young people. I represented the Royal Air Force and Hants in Athletics. My first appointment in civilian life was as the Training Manager at BAE where I was responsible for the Training and Recruitment of all grades of Graduates, Apprentices, and Youth Training Scheme.

After being made redundant at age 52 I set up ETC Education and Training Consultancy obtaining various contracts including Support for the Unemployed, Recruiting for Young Engineers, and Neighbourhood Engineer Scheme. This was a collaborative working project with teachers to encourage and enthuse young people to take up Maths and Science subjects.

I have been a campaigner for health issues around the Area for many years and a volunteer for 40 years. These included Health, Sport, Community, and Education for which I was awarded a National Community Service Award in 2005. I was involved in Portsmouth Joggers, taking exercises, and the Chair for 3 years. I was a Walk Leader for Portsmouth City Council Walking For Health. Later set up an independent scheme for Health and Wellbeing called Walking Friends Portsmouth which had various strands such as Walking, Barn dances, Skittles, Coach Trips, and holidays. I also introduced Tai Chi to Buckland Community Centre for 17 years. Walking Friends was also involved with Portsmouth University to develop a Body Morph project which was to support new measures of obesity. Been involved St Thomas Hospital London in medical research including Twins and COVID19 a lot of experience.

The reason I wanted to become part of the Side by Side project is, that as an older person, I have a lot of experience and knowledge of both Communities and Health Provision.

As I am less physically active now due to heart failure 84, I am still keen to contribute to my community with the same passion for access to all.

My routine is still 2 exercise sessions, a Balance Class, Dog walking and two singing sessions.

I have always promoted healthy activities with Portsmouth, Emsworth and beyond

30 October 2024