Paul Richards

  • paul richards

    Paul Richards

    Trainee Asbestos Surveyor

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  • Hampshire County Council truly care for their employees, which shows through the day to day of how the team operates.

    What is your background?

    I joined Hampshire County Council (HCC) Asbestos Management Services in 2019 as a level 1 Trainee Asbestos Surveyor. Previously I worked in retail for 18 years and was attracted to the team for the new challenge in my life in a new sector. This role offered me the ability to retrain and develop in unique industry. A huge part of working for Hampshire County Council is they truly care for their employees, which shows through the day to day of how the team operates. Changing from the private sector, which was financially driven, compared with the public sector, which is much more focused around delivering quality and doing the right thing. I have only seen positive changes in my work life, home life, and the balance between the two.

    What training have you been given?

    The variety of work I do means I always have more chances to learn, develop and grow; analysing samples in the laboratory, going out to various sites across Hampshire completing surveys and air testing all alongside qualified surveyors who are keen to help and develop me. All the training I have done has been in-house with hands on experience. This has given me confidence in becoming a qualified surveyor.

    How have you found the career change?

    The complete change of career during this stage of my life was a big move to make, it has been an amazing experience, from it I have found a new passion. I am very proud to say I am part of Hampshire Council Asbestos Management Services and am looking forward to my future here.