News and events

Three of our nurses were among a number of individuals recognised by Royalty last week for their positive impact on local communities.

Nicola Brown, Assistant Director of Children’s Universal Services, Judi Draper, retired nurse and Practice Education Facilitator, Catherine McArevery were among the attendees who joined King Charles III and members of the Royal Family at a Royal Garden Party in the grounds of Buckingham Palace.

Nicola and Judi were nominated to attend for the contribution they have made to the trust and the NHS. Judi, a former leg ulcer specialist retired in January after more than 50 years in nursing. Nicola’s career spans decades and she is currently heavily involved in mobilisation for the public health nursing contract. Catherine joined in her capacity as Mayor of Dacorum, a role she has undertaken over the past year.

Nicola said: “It was a very special and memorable occasion. During the afternoon I had the opportunity to speak with HRH The Duke of Edinburgh, and to see His Majesty The King, The Queen, The Princess Royal and The Duchess of Edinburgh. The setting was beautiful, with the gardens, military bands and King’s Guards creating a real sense of occasion alongside a traditional afternoon tea.”

Catherine said: “To walk through those beautiful gardens alongside people who have dedicated so much of their lives to serving others was incredibly moving and I felt immensely proud to represent Dacorum.”

Judi said: "I was truly honoured to be nominated for this event, meeting the King and shaking his hand was amazing.  Meeting colleagues and sharing the day in the beautiful gardens made it memorable. Afternoon tea was outstanding."

The garden party was held on Wednesday 6 May, ahead of International Nurses' Day, which took place yesterday (12 May).