Dedicated Midwife Receives Pride of Britain Award on Behalf of the Windrush Generation

Last night, in the 75th year anniversary of HMT Empire Windrush, the Windrush generation were presented with the Outstanding Contribution award at the Pride of Britain Awards, for the contribution they and their children and grandchildren have made to British life and to Britain which is immeasurable.

Between 1948 and 1971, more than 500,000 men and women made the brave choice to create a new life here – bringing with them a fierce determination to succeed. They brought other things too – new food, fashion and music that make our cities the vibrant, culturally-rich places they are today. We celebrate the skills of their descendants as they represent Britain on the global sporting stage too.

Our very own, Vernesta Cyril OBE, was one of the chosen few who was invited to receive the award on behalf of the Windrush generation at this year’s Pride of Britain awards. Vernesta served with us as a much-loved midwife at the Royal Gwent Hospital for 40 years, is the founder of the South East Wales Race Equality Council and still lives in Gwent today.

She is just one example of the Windrush generation's invaluable contribution to the NHS - thank you all.