Several hundred colleagues from University Hospitals Sussex NHS Foundation Trust (UHSussex) have been recognised for their hard work and dedication to the Trust over the years.
A total of 583 members of staff attended Long Service Award ceremonies over the past few months to celebrate reaching the milestones of 20, 30, 40 and 40+ years working at UHSussex, across all of its hospital sites.
Their combined number of years of service totals an incredible 13,677 years.
The awards, which have been postponed for the past few years due to the pandemic, kicked off at Fontwell Racecourse in January, and finished on Friday (10 March) at Brighton Metropole Hotel.
Attendees enjoyed a selection of afternoon tea before being presented with their long service certificate by Dr George Findlay, UHSussex Chief Executive. George was joined by Alan McCarthy, UHSussex Chairman, and Patrick Boyle, Non-executive Director.
Dr George Findlay said at the final event on Friday: “It’s really important we had the chance to come together face to face to celebrate colleagues and say thank you.
“We have been able to see almost 600 colleagues and recognise their service at the Trust. Collectively that’s been over 13,000 years of hard work and dedication.
“It is truly amazing, so it has just been great to say thank you in person for all that they have done.”
The events provided an opportunity for colleagues to share their career journey, highlight the passion for their job role, and express how they felt to be recognised for their commitment and contributions over the years.
Angela Beale is an Accommodation Manager who has worked at the Trust for over 40 years.
When asked about her role, she said: “The aim is to accommodate as many people as we can; doctors, nurses, healthcare professionals. I’ve met some wonderful people throughout my career.”
Rob Brown, Business Operations Manager within Capital Development and Property, has worked across sites at the Trust for 24 years.
He said: “A highlight for me has been providing brand new patient environments and working with some fantastic people over 24 years.”
Julie, who has worked at Worthing Hospital reception for over 20 years, said: “I enjoy most of the jobs I do, but meeting people, and sorting out and solving problems, gives me great pleasure.”
Friday’s ceremony was even more significant for Staff Nurse Severa, as it marked 22 years to the day that she joined the Trust.
Severa, who currently works in Endoscopy, has worked at Southlands and Worthing hospitals. She said: “It feels great to be here today to be awarded and honoured for our hard work and long service in the Trust.”
Hear from more of our colleagues who attended Friday’s event, as they share their career milestones at UHSussex.
See how our colleagues celebrated at the events via our photo gallery.
Read more about how we kicked off the Long Service Awards back in January via the news story on our website.