Bradford District Care NHS Foundation Trust has recognised the service of 66 staff members who together, have given over 1,890 years of service to the NHS, at a celebration event.

Staff who have each given 25 and 40 years of service to support local communities, received an award and a long service certificate to mark their achievement.

Nicki Cook, Lead Psychological Therapist at the Trust, with 40 years of service in the NHS, said: “Having reflected on my 40-year career in the NHS, I’m very happy to have had the opportunity for to be part of so many of life’s experiences, from bringing babies into the world to nursing people out of the world. There is a joy of seeing humanity in our highs and lows, having worked on intensive care in physical and mental health and wellbeing, and all my other experiences in-between. It really has been a privilege. It’s a pleasure to end my working days at the Care Trust and to see the positive initiatives for patients and staff.”

Celebration of long service is an annual Trust event to recognise staff who have demonstrated a long-term commitment to local health care services.

Two attendees of the event shared their feedback. Lorna Armstrong, Community Health Visitor, said: “Thank you and all the team for such a lovely day. The food, the organisation of the day and the whole ambience made me feel really appreciated by the Care Trust.”

Julie Gilbert, Senior Nurse, said: “I want to thank the team for putting together such a lovely afternoon and for my gift and certificate. My daughter really enjoyed it and got some insight into nursing, as she said with the NHS always getting negative press. It was lovely to hear everyone’s journeys and good feedback.”

Kelly Barker, Chief Operating Officer at the Care Trust, said: “It was a great event that celebrated the care and compassion shown by our people, people who have gone the extra mile for our communities. It is right that we mark the 40 years and 25 years of service for all those involved. I’d like to thank all our long-serving colleagues for their commitment to the NHS and Sovereign Healthcare who has kindly sponsored the event.”