Karen Bradley

ON Sunday, the National Health Service marked the anniversary of its foundation after the most challenging time in its 72-year history. Coronavirus has been a global health emergency on a scale not seen for a century and our fantastic NHS staff have had to come together as never before, supported by volunteers and the public.

We all owe a debt of gratitude to our nurses, midwives, doctors, physios, pharmacists, healthcare and maternity care assistants, porters, cleaners, and countless other staff who ensured no patient who could benefit from NHS care was unable to receive it.

Along, of course, with the other key workers such as our emergency services, care staff, teachers, transport workers, delivery drivers and shop assistants who kept the country running.

I am incredibly proud of the examples of fantastic care that have made a genuine difference and touched the lives of local people here in the Moorlands and it is absolutely right that we celebrate the work staff put into the NHS.

That’s why I am seeking nominations from local people and local health and care organisations for the NHS Parliamentary Awards in recognition of staff who have gone above and beyond the call of duty.

There are 10 categories, covering key areas such as mental health and primary care, as well as a Lifetime Achievement award for someone who has contributed to the success of the NHS for 40 years or more and the Rising Star award for someone who has, despite being young in years, made a significant contribution to our local service.

Each MP can submit one nomination per category so I will enter the ones that have been nominated by the most people.

Please see www.england.nhs. uk/nhs-parliamentary-awards/ how-to-nominate for details on how to nominate.

Nominations close on September 1, so please email them to me at karen.bradley.mp@parliament.uk.