In loving memory of Norman Campbell: 1960-2020

It is with huge sadness that we have to announce that Norman Campbell, a former manager and nurse from our Learning Disability Services, died from Coronavirus at Leeds General Infirmary on Wednesday 6 May 2020.

Our thoughts and prayers are with his family and friends at this very difficult time. We have shared with Norman’s family and loved ones how much he meant to so many colleagues and service users.

Norman started work at the Trust as a learning disability student nurse in February 1981 at Meanwood Park Hospital, and qualified in 1984. He went on to have a 27 year career at what became Leeds and York Partnership NHS Foundation Trust (LYPFT).

He left the Trust in 2008 to become a Learning Disability Commissioning Manager for NHS Leeds Primary Care Trust, and subsequently Clinical Commissioning Groups. He stayed there until he finally retired in 2017 after 36 years dedicated to improving the lives of people with learning disabilities. In his nine years as a commissioner he continued to have a strong relationship with LYPFT colleagues and was a supportive and innovative collaborative partner.

Norman has been described by many former colleagues as being completely passionate about equality and rights of people with learning disabilities. They said he was kind and caring, a great colleague and mentor, easy to talk to and confide in with a great and individual sense of humour.

During his career, Norman worked across every aspect of service provision; including inpatient and community, management and training as a specialist in learning disability physical interventions. Older colleagues will always fondly remember the ‘neutral non-threatening stance’ and the ‘wax on, wax off’ manoeuvre so well taught by Norman with rhythm and style. He ended his career in commissioning – always staying true to his strong core values.

Norman was fiercely proud of his Scottish heritage and was a fanatical and highly skilled biker – he could often be seen out and about in his leathers. He loved to socialise and was always first up on the dance floor dragging friends and colleagues up to join him (pictured above).

Although his retirement was short, he was living his life to the full and was upbeat and optimistic.

Sheena Kelly, a former colleague who trained with Norman and worked with him for 33 years, said: “Although I was sorry to see Norman leave LYPFT, I was also excited and relieved that I felt the Learning Disability commissioning post was in safe hands and I still would be working closely with him which we did, successfully leading events and initiatives to continue to improve services.”

Julie Howard, another close and long standing colleague, said: “Taken far too soon, Norman. You are missed by many and remembered for your fun and laughter, your passion in all things and your care and kindness.”

Sheila Dunham, a former Associate Director of Learning Disability Services at LYPFT and Norman’s line manager for many years, said: “Learning disability services can really bring out the best in people and Norman really was someone who completely exemplified this. Rest in Peace Norman, you will be sadly missed.”