Coventry and Warwickshire Partnership NHS Trust (CWPT) colleagues invited to attend the NHS 75 celebrations at number 10 Downing Street
Janet Harvey-Kenworthy, Head of Nursing for Adult Community Mental Health Teams and Talking Therapies (IAPT), and Joanne Holland, Advanced Consultant Clinical Practitioner and Well-Being Guide, were nominated to attend the Number 10 Downing Street celebration in honour of the NHS’ 75th birthday.
Janet and Jo were nominated in recognition of their outstanding work and commitment to the Trust, and were delighted to receive and accept the invitation.
“It came as a real shock and surprise to receive an official email from Downing Street inviting us to a reception to mark 75 years of the NHS” said Janet, when asked about how she felt when she received the invitation.
“Over our long careers, myself and Jo are used to nominating other people for opportunities because, for us, the gift of being a nurse and providing leadership, supportive direction, and development opportunities to colleagues is more than a sufficient reward and it is our vocation, but we were honoured by the nomination.”
When reflecting on their experience of the event, Janet noted numerous memories that she will always remember:
“Although we had not had the pleasure of working alongside each other or really knowing each other beforehand, travelling down together by rail with Jo made the event super special. Her support, companionship, and having the opportunity to mutually share some of our NHS stories and personal experiences were an additional gift and will also be treasured.”
“Entering Downing Street and being directed to the State reception rooms was another standout moment. Having the opportunity to hear about the experience of NHS colleagues who have been in the organisation for 40-50 years, and knowing that we are all part of the NHS’ milestones, contributions, and values that support patient care, was amazing.”
“Another incredible memory was the recognition and attendance of the Prime Minister and the Secretary of Health, alongside the England’s Chief Nurse and other members of parliament. Being able to converse with them was a once-in-a-lifetime experience for me and Jo.”
Summarising what the nomination and attending the event meant to them, Janet and Jo agreed they were there to represent CWPT staff as a whole.
“In essence, the 5 July NHS celebration event that we attended at 10 Downing Street is a big thank you and recognition to all our CWPT colleagues for what we do daily and how we contribute to the high standards of the NHS.”