Recognising over 1000 years of service at West Middlesex

Members of staff, who between them have clocked up nearly 1400 years of service, were celebrated at West Middlesex University Hospital’s annual Long Service Awards on Wednesday 11 March.

The awards recognise and reward the loyalty of staff members who have put in over fifteen years of service. 69 employees received awards after achieving one of the significant milestones of 15, 20, 25, 30 and 35 years.

Jacqueline Docherty DBE, Chief Executive, spoke at the awards of the strong sense of care, compassion and teamwork found across the hospital, which is so important in ensuring patients receive safe, excellent care: “As dedicated employees of our Trust your wealth of knowledge and experience is a key aspect in improving the patient experience.  Whether you know it or not each and every one of you will have helped to make a difference to the people who use our services. Whilst people come here to receive care and treatment, they notice the way staff interact with them and each other. Care, compassion and team working are key to a good experience and this is what helps make our hospital special.”

Peace Ireland was collecting her award for 25 years’ service.  She said: “I started working as a Healthcare Assistant before moving into my current role on A&E reception. I have seen tremendous changes during my time here and have worked with so many great people from across the entire organisation. I really enjoy working here and have done so for most of my life. I know that when I retire it will be from a job that I love.”

Gill Williams has worked at the Trust for 30 years in the Pharmacy department: “I did my initial pharmacy training here, eventually working my way up to my current position as pharmacy technician. The people here are great and I am proud to be part of the team. I just can’t believe where the 30 years have gone!”

Hugh Rogers received his award for 25 years’ service: “My favourite memory from my time here has to be my involvement in designing the new building. As Clinical Director at the time, I worked closely with the architects to help create what we stand in today and I certainly have a strong attachment to the place.”

One of the longest serving staff members at the ceremony was Lead Nurse Specialist in Stoma Care, Tracey Virgin-Elliston who has worked at the Trust for 35 years. She said: “I have got so many stories from the ‘olden days’ - patients used to have to stay in hospital a lot longer than they do now and I can remember when the less unwell patients used to get out of bed and eat their meals together at a table, which was great for camaraderie and socialising. There have been a great number of changes throughout the years but West Middlesex has always been a really lovely and friendly place to work; I have seen people leave but they always come back.”