Barrie Richardson

I have only just learned of this sad and shocking news. I echo the thoughts and memories of the condolences left, you were such a passionate advocate for people with learning difficulties and your values shone through, I am truly privileged to have known you and so sad the world is now without you. My thoughts go out to your husband, family and friends.

Barrie, im lost for words. you where honestly one of the most kind hearted, beautiful human beings I have ever worked with. we grew incredibly close during our time together, causing so many laughs and little bit of mischief. I remember when we met at the sands centre and had a few drinks before the drag queen pantomime. to which you were called out by one of the drag queens, who tortured you for the entire 2 hours. it was so funny. I cant believe your gone. ill miss your smile and your huge hugs that just made everything feel okay again. thankyou for being you and thankyou for coming into my life even if it was brief. Rip Barrie, ill miss you dearly my beautiful friend xxx

I worked with Barrie a number of times and it seems all too brief now. He loved people and worked hard to make sure their rights were upheld. Always friendly and cheerful even when under pressure, I will miss him. The world seems a bit colder without him. His commitment and his achievements remain inspiring.

I only met and chatted to Barrie a very few times in person, and a little more often on Teams, but that was enough for me to know that he had a special quality and a genuine desire to do a great job. He was one of those people that I felt I had known for some time, even though we had just met. His warmth was evident and I know from our staff at People First who worked closely with him that he was respected as a great colleague and advocate. He will be missed by all those who were fortunate to have known him.

Barrie, you were just such a ray of sunshine! Nothing was ever to much for you, always willing to help out in any way you could! Although the time I spent with you was small this was enough to show how much of an amazing person you were! Loved by everyone. Always impeccably presented with a beaming smile! Taken from us too soon, I hope your at peace with the angels, they are so lucky to have you. Amy xx

From the very first time I met you I knew you were a very special person. With a huge heart and great passion your warmth, empathy, smile and kindness was always there for all to see. You will be greatly missed but never forgotten. Thank you for being you and bringing your light into the lives of so many.

Barrie, I am struggling to know what to say. I have written and rewritten this so many times I have lost count, but it always boils down to that one word - why? You were always so vibrant and full of life, and I can't imagine a world without you in it. You brought love, laughter, kindness, and wisdom, and a sense of style to everything you did. I loved working with you and I am honoured to call you my friend. I am going to miss being a 'lady that lunches' with you like we had planned for when this lockdown is over, but I promise to do it in your memory and toast you. My thoughts are with Barry and your family and I hope that in time they find some comfort in the messages here. They are a testament to your character and how loved and respected you were. Love and Light Nikki

Barrie, its taken me a few attempts to work out what to say. I was shocked and saddened to hear of your passing. My memory will always be of you being able to convey many words with a look, when words weren't right, supporting and always going the extra mile. Not to mention always smelling amazing as you came in with a huge smile and your baking skills were unreal, even when I was trying to diet! I also think you matched my love for fur babies and that takes some saying. Safe journey on the other side and my thoughts are with your family and friends at this time.