Grand Celebration for Dedicated Staff Marking 25 and 40 Years in the NHS

Dedicated NHS staff have been honoured by the Trust.

A wide range of staff who had served the Trust for 25 and 40 years attended one of two special ceremonies at Knowsley Hall and West Tower in Ormskirk and were recognised for their “loyalty and hard work.’’

This year 100 MWL staff were eligible for awards with a combined total of 2,680 years of working in the NHS alone between them.

Those who attended the ceremonies were praised by Chief Executive, Ann Marr OBE.

She said: “Giving 25 years’ service and 40 years’ service to our Trust really is an incredible achievement. Your skills, dedication and commitment have been outstanding.

“Whether clinical or non-clinical, patient facing or behind the scenes, every role in our organisation is vital to providing the very best experience.

“You make a difference to every patient and family member who comes through our doors every day. I receive so many letters and emails from people - patients and relatives - who are very grateful, not only for what you do - but the kind and caring way that you do it.

“I would like to say thank you on behalf of the Trust and on behalf of each and every patient you’ve helped. Your immense loyalty and hard work over the years is very much appreciated.’’

Diana Lewis, who works in the Trust’s HR department, was one of those celebrating passing 40 years of working in the NHS after starting work as the Deputy Hospital Administrator in 1983.

She said: “It was a really special evening for everyone at a wonderful venue and we were truly welcomed.

“To be recognised for my service and to see other staff who have worked across the Trust for so long also being honoured in such a way was lovely.

“I also thought it was also really nice that our families were recognised for their support too, as I feel they help us so much during our careers.’’

Sally Rutherford-Lees, who works in the pharmacy department at Southport was one of those celebrating passing 25 years of working in the NHS after starting her career in 1998.

She said: “It was a lovely evening. West Tower is a wonderful venue, and we were all made to feel really special.

“It was lovely to be recognised for my service and to be with colleagues who have worked across the NHS for so long.

“I started my career at Ormskirk before moving to Southport and time has flown by. Working in the NHS certainly has its challenges, but I work with a fantastic team of people who do everything they can to provide the best possible care.’’