Firefighter Lee Ralph awarded the British Empire Medal

Firefighter Lee Ralph, from Kingswood Red Watch, has been awarded the British Empire Medal (BEM) in the King’s Birthday Honours, recognising his outstanding contribution to mental health, wellbeing and resilience across the fire and rescue community. 

This reflects years of dedicated work leading a cultural shift in how mental health is understood, supported and prioritised within the fire service. His efforts have helped create safer, more open environments where firefighters feel able to talk about their wellbeing and access support when they need it. 

Lee has been widely praised for championing mental health initiatives that have had a tangible impact on colleagues across Avon Fire & Rescue Service and beyond. His work includes: 

Lee has raised awareness through high profile initiatives, including organising a 100+ person workout on the summit of Pen y Fan to bring people together, highlight mental health challenges and raise vital funds. He also hosts Ignite the Conversation, Avon Fire & Rescue Service’s mental health podcast with Warren Sheppard, created to open honest discussions about wellbeing in the fire and rescue community and encourage people to talk, listen and support one another. Alongside this, Lee has been involved in charity work through the Charity Challenge Endeavour and has been recognised as an inspiring role model. 

Outside of work, Lee remains a dedicated advocate for mental health, he champions openness and resilience. He also provides a constant, accessible space for people to reach out at any time for an open and supportive conversation. 

“I want to congratulate Firefighter Lee Ralph; this award reflects the difference you have made to colleagues across our Service and the wider fire and rescue community. You embody the very best of Avon Fire & Rescue Service, and by promoting openness around mental health and wellbeing you’ve helped create a culture where people feel able to speak up and support one another. That work strengthens our Service and ensures we can continue serving our communities safely. We are incredibly proud of everything you have done.”

Matt Cook, Chief Fire Officer for Avon Fire and Rescue Service.