Coronavirus has been a global health emergency on a scale not seen for a century. The NHS, which first opened its doors at Trafford Park Hospital on July 5 1948, responded swiftly and flexibly to deal with the pandemic but staff – present, past and future – have had to come together as never before, supported by volunteers and the public.
The nation owes a debt of gratitude to the 1.3 million-strong army of nurses, midwives, doctors, physios, pharmacists, healthcare and maternity care assistants porters, cleaners, and countless other staff who ensured no patient who could benefit from NHS care was unable to receive it. Along, of course, with the other key workers such as care staff, teachers, transport workers, delivery drivers and shop assistants who kept the country running.
For more than 70 years, the NHS has been transforming the health and wellbeing of the nation, caring for us from cradle to the grave. However, none of this would be possible without the skill, dedication and compassion of NHS staff, as well as the many volunteers, charities and communities that support the service.
That’s why I’m delighted to be participating in the NHS Parliamentary Awards. I know there are some excellent and innovative things going on in Ruislip, Northwood and Pinner and want to show case and honour ‘best of the best’ in our area to the rest of England and Parliament. I would urge those working with and for health and care organisations in the constituency to send me further examples they think deserve national recognition.
There are ten categories, covering key areas such as mental health and primary care, as well as a Lifetime Achievement award for someone who has contributed to the success of the NHS for 40 years or more and the Rising Star award for someone who has, despite being young in years, made a significant contribution to our local service.
Information on how to nominate is available at https://www.england.nhs.uk/nhs-parliamentary-awards/how-to-nominate/ – nominations close on 1 September, so please get them in to me as soon as possible on [email protected]
