Stewart Clapperton, a dedicated and highly respected member of the SoR, has passed away.
After his training as a Diagnostic Radiographer, Stewart became closely involved with the SoR, and spent many years dedicating his life to supporting members of the Society, through advocacy of equal rights for the LGBTQI+ community and through his time on UK Council.
In 2000, Stewart was presented with the Fellowship of the College of Radiographers by past president Janet Reid, for his service as industrial relations representative and health and safety representative at the Royal Alexandra Children’s Hospital, Brighton.
Speaking at the time, Janet said: “Stewart epitomises what a regional rep should be, ensuring effective two-way communication and making sure Council was aware of the views of those he represented. He had a determination not to let Council off the hook if he wasn’t happy, and it is testimony to Stewart that the award of the Fellowship, which is not given lightly, had the support of all of Council.”
Contributing to the profession
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(Image: Stewart Clapperton in training)
Stewart trained in radiography in the army during his national service in Germany, and spent many years contributing to the profession. From 1989 until 2000, Stewart served on UK Council, and was a Trustee of the College of Radiographers.
Stewart was a trustee and later chair of the SoR employees’ pension fund. He began that role in 1996 and continued on the board until 2010.
Richard Evans, CEO of the SoR, said he was privileged to have known Stewart, in this and other roles when he took up his role in 2004.
He was also an enthusiastic delegation member for the South East region every year at the Annual Delegates Conference, a passionate speaker who was particularly outspoken on the importance of equality.
Stewart was also involved in what would become the equalities group Equalise within the SoR, and delivered equality training for Society staff even after his retirement.
Richard added: “He had an enormous sense of humour, and was very gentle and approachable, but with a fierce sense of the need to defend equal rights with amazing energy, which continued until he finally retired. It’s very sad to hear the news of his death.”
Karen Smith, past president of the SoR, said: “I feel incredibly privileged to have known Stewart through the Society of Radiographers. He was a constant source of support and encouragement, especially at the Annual Delegates Conference, where he had a remarkable ability to put nervous speakers at ease. No matter how busy he was, he always found time to chat, offer thoughtful advice, and generously share his experience.
“When I think of Stewart, I smile. I remember his laughter, his mischievous sense of humour, and the many jokes and japes that brightened long conference days. He made people feel welcome and included, and he had a gift for bringing out the best in others.
“Stewart cared deeply about fairness, equality, and the profession he loved. As an openly gay man, he understood the importance of creating spaces where everyone felt accepted, valued, and able to thrive. He quietly championed others, celebrated their successes, and encouraged people to believe in themselves.
“The Society of Radiographers has lost one of its true champions, but Stewart's kindness, generosity, humour, and unwavering belief in people will continue to live on in the many colleagues and friends whose lives he touched. He will be greatly missed and fondly remembered.
A history of support
(Image: Mark Viner (L), Charlotte Beardmore (M) and Stewart Clapperton (R))
Audrey Paterson, past president and SoR historian, explained that it was not until almost the end of Stewart’s tenure on UK Council that the Trade Unions Congress held its very first Lesbian and Gay conference in 1998.
The SoR established its own Lesbian and Gay Network which met for the first time in March 1999, with Stewart as the responsible Council Member.
Stewart had been a member of the London and Home Counties Branch for some years before his election to Council as a regional member, with a wealth of experience as both a Health and Safety Representative and an Industrial Relations Representative.
Audrey added: “I shall remember him for his unfailing personal support and friendship, and his integrity, dependability, good humour, and good grace. He was often the voice of the silent majority, a 'feet on the ground' Council Member who represented members' concerns without fear or favour, and without ever raising his voice.”
Marie Bullough, regional officer for the South East from 1993, remembers Stewart with great fondness and respect. It was Stewart who first persuaded Marie to become an IR rep in Brighton in 1985.
Marie says: “I have Stewart to thank for encouraging me to use my personality to my and SoR members’ advantage. I worked very closely with Stewart for many years until he retired. He was a very caring person who sent me a Christmas card every year and invited me to be a witness at his wedding to Keith. Stewart was always thinking of others and how he could help them. He wasn’t interested in getting to be President but preferred to ‘rock the boat’ on behalf of members. Rest in peace, Stewart.”
Sue Johnson, professional officer for clinical imaging and past president of the SoR, said: “I have many happy memories of Stewart and his approach, especially at ADC meetings. His style was often to speak as much as possible, but always in a way that made you stop and think. He was never afraid to challenge conventional wisdom or ask the awkward question that others might have avoided.
“Whilst I often disagreed with some of his views, we were always able to debate them professionally, robustly and usually with a good dose of humour. I respected him greatly for that.”