Staff and volunteers recognised at NHS Long Service Awards
Date added: 25 October 2024
This week, Kent and Medway NHS and Social Care Partnership Trust (KMPT) celebrated long serving NHS staff with a special event to acknowledge their commitment and dedication.
This year marked the first time KMPT celebrated entire NHS service, recognising both KMPT and prior NHS contributions, while last year’s awards focused solely on years of service within KMPT.
The event took place at Broome Park Hotel on Thursday 24 September, with attendees from a wide range of roles. These included Nurses, Matrons, Healthcare Assistants, Occupational Therapists, Support Workers, Psychologists, Advanced Clinical Practitioners and Hotel Services Operatives.
Awards were presented to staff and volunteers marking milestones of 20, 25, 30, 35, 40, and over 50 years of service to the NHS and KMPT. The executive management and non-executive teams hosted tables, while a magician and orchestra added to the afternoon’s celebratory atmosphere.
Trust Chair Dr Jackie Craissati, Chief Executive Sheila Stenson, and Director of Communications and Engagement Kindra Hyttner welcomed the attendees. Each guest was given a commemorative long service award and a certificate.
Jackie Craissati expressed her gratitude, saying: “Today is about you, and for you. It is our chance to thank you for your dedicated service, or volunteering, to the NHS. If we add up all your years in the NHS, together you have delivered an impressive 2,805 years of care.”
Among the guests was Dr. Adesola Sewo, celebrating 25 years of service. Dr. Sewo, a Specialty Doctor at the Rosewood Mother & Baby Unit, reflected on her NHS journey, which began in 1998 as a senior house officer with the South East Guy’s and St. Thomas’ training program. After joining KMPT in 2006, she held various roles across CRHT and inpatient services before pursuing her passion for perinatal psychiatry at Rosewood in 2018. Reflecting on her career, Dr. Sewo shared, “Receiving a long service award is an appreciation of offering 25 years of service.” She noted her proudest achievement as bringing stability to the Maidstone CRHT team, where her long-term commitment made a lasting difference to colleagues and patients.
Speaking at the event, Sheila Stenson also shared her appreciation: “You know how important it is to me that everyone feels recognised for what they do, and this is just one of the initiatives I have put in place to help you know how much we appreciate you. Please enjoy the day—today is all about celebrating you.”
Afifa Qazi, Chief Medical Director who was marking 20 years of NHS service, said: “This celebration is a wonderful way to acknowledge the dedication of staff who have given so much to the NHS and KMPT. The trust has created such a friendly and supportive environment that truly values its people.”
