Croydon’s NHS staff celebrate a record 882 years’ service
Croydon Health Services NHS Trust has celebrated the dedication of 27 NHS staff who have contributed over 880 years to the borough’s health service at an awards ceremony earlier this week (Wednesday 22 June).
The event, which recognises the efforts of staff who have reached 30 and 40 years’ continuous service in Croydon, brought together some of the Trust’s hardworking NHS staff for the first time since the COVID-19 pandemic, to thank them for their commitment to the people of Croydon.
Speaking at the event, Matthew Kershaw, Chief Executive and Place-Based Leader for Health at Croydon Health Services NHS Trust said: 
“We are delighted to recognise the unwavering commitment of our NHS teams including those who have dedicated a huge part, or in some cases their whole career to caring for the people of Croydon.
“Whether working on the frontline as a nurse or behind the scenes in our vital support functions, each of our long service award recipients deserves to be celebrated for their achievement.
“Croydon’s health system has transformed completely over the past thirty or forty years, now providing both hospital and community care to over 380,000 residents and working with our health and care partners to support many more across south west London. We couldn’t have achieved this with the help of those we have recognised this evening and we owe them – and all of our incredible NHS teams - a huge debt of gratitude.”
Also included in the celebrations were Yvonne Woods and Cathie Gunner, both of whom have worked for Croydon’s NHS for over 40 years.
Medical Secretary, Yvonne said: 
“When I joined the Trust 42 years ago, there was one consultant working in A&E, 10 junior doctors and one secretary; now there’s 10 consultants and around 60 junior doctors – and I’m still the one secretary! While it definitely has gotten busier, it’s never a chore. I love the people I work with and enjoy it so much – even after 40 years – and that’s why I’m still here!”
Nursing Matron, Cathie added:
“I’ve always been passionate about nursing and I live in Croydon, so as well as being part of the community, my job is my way of giving back. I’ve met a lot of people in my 40 years with the NHS and it’s definitely become like a big work family!”