The contributions of nurses and other NHS workers have been recognised by the New Year's Honours List.
Notable nurses and allied health professionals recognised for their service include Professor Dame Sally Davies, the former chief medical officer, who has been named a Dame Grand Cross of the Order of the Bath. Davies becomes the second woman, and first outside the Royal family, to be appointed to this position.
Others include Elizabeth Louise Alderton, a Community Nurse Team Lead and Queen's Nurse at North East London NHS Foundation Trust; Carolyn Fox, Chief Nurse at University Hospitals of Leicester NHS Trust; and Manjit Darby, Director of Nursing Leadership and Quality, Midlands, NHS England and NHS Improvement
'It’s fantastic to see so many of our incredible NHS and social care staff recognised for their incredible achievements,' said health secretary Matt Hancock. 'In particular, Professor Dame Sally Davies had an extraordinary impact during her time as Chief Medical Officer, including her revolutionary efforts in the fight against antimicrobial resistance and leading the UK’s response to recent health emergencies. I’m delighted her unfaltering determination to improve the nation’s health is being celebrated.'
‘The RCN congratulates all the nurses recognised in the New Year Honours,’ said Dame Donna Kinnair, chief executive of the RCN. ‘As you read the list, the extraordinary breadth and depth of the work done by the nurses honoured is striking – not just in hospital and community services, but in public heath, our Armed Forces and charities, and in specialist areas ranging from mental health to infection control to ophthalmics. The College is very pleased to see the enormous – and unique – contribution made by nursing staff recognised in this way.’
Additionally, Simon Stevens, the chief executive of NHS England was knighted for his services.
‘Simon Stevens has worked tirelessly in the service of the NHS in England, and it is fitting for him to be recognised alongside many nursing staff today,’ added Dame Donna. ‘Under Simon Stevens’ leadership, we have now started on a journey in the right direction to address the severe workforce challenges facing nursing, but there is a long way still to go. He has been clear-sighted enough to realise that the vision he outlined in the Long Term Plan for the NHS – which we all share - will not be achieved without significantly increasing nurse numbers. I look forward to continuing to work with him to secure a long-term solution to the nursing workforce problems the NHS faces in England.’