A Royal invitation for Trust staff and volunteer
In May, five exceptional members of staff and one dedicated volunteer from Buckinghamshire Healthcare NHS Trust (BHT) were honoured with an invitation to attend His Majesty the King’s Garden Party at Buckingham Palace. Nominated by their colleagues for their outstanding contributions, each attendee enjoyed a truly memorable day in recognition of their service.
Amongst those who attended were Lisa Squire and Matt Kinsella. Lisa is a nursery nurse at Stoke Mandeville Hospital who has worked tirelessly to raise awareness about Violence Against Women and Girls and non-contact sexual offences. Matt is a consultant ophthalmologist who was nominated by his colleagues for his outstanding leadership and clinical expertise, including introducing and delivering new glaucoma surgical techniques and laser therapies.
Commenting on the Trust staff and volunteer invited to the prestigious event, The Countess Howe, His Majesty’s Lord-Lieutenant of Buckinghamshire, said: “It is wonderful that our NHS Trust staff were recognised by His Majesty the King with an invitation to a Buckingham Palace Garden Party, for their significant, dedicated service. It is a great privilege for me as Lord-Lieutenant to be able to nominate individuals who have made a selfless contribution to their community, and I feel immense pride that they have been recognised in this way.”
Neil Macdonald, Chief Executive of the Trust said: “It’s always a source of pride when the efforts of hardworking colleagues and volunteers are recognised. It’s wonderful that so many BHT representatives were honoured and were able to enjoy a memorable day.”
Among those also invited was Luisa Clarke, Schools Engagement Lead, who reflected on the experience: “It was such an unexpected honour for the school engagement programme to be recognised in this way. So many colleagues across the Trust have collaborated to set up new work experiences and support careers activities, and I would have loved to take all who’ve played a part with me. As it was, I took my Mum as my guest and we strolled around the lake, enjoyed afternoon tea and watched the royal party from afar. It was a day we’ll always remember together – thank you BHT!”
Helen Bewley, Lead for Mortuary Services and Lead Anatomical Pathology Technician said: “What an honour it was. Seeing the Prince and Princess of Wales was phenomenal, and meeting so many inspirational people was such a privilege. But having my Dad with me and seeing him enjoy the day so much was incredibly special. Thank you to my lovely colleagues who gave us such a very special day, a memory we shall both treasure.”
Carole Last, who has volunteered for the Trust for over 14 years, added: “It was a unique experience – from the fashion and formal wear to the afternoon tea. The atmosphere and occasion were unforgettable.”
Claire Brandish, Lead Anti-Infectives Pharmacist said: “An inspiring celebration of fantastic individuals from all walks of life doing their best for others. It was a privilege to be invited and to take my Mum. I proudly wore my Antimicrobial Stewardship jacket gifted to me by my mentee in Nigeria.”
Pictured above: (left) Luisa Clarke, (right) Carole Last
Pictured above left: Helen Bewley with her Dad and above right: Claire Brandish (seated right) with her mum