Heroic pandemic staff celebrated with COVID-19 medal

Over 5,000 members of South West Yorkshire Partnership NHS Foundation Trust staff have been honoured for their commitment, courage and resilience throughout the COVID-19 pandemic with a specially designed commemorative medal.

The medals were commissioned to recognise the contribution made by all staff, including volunteers, during the challenging pandemic. They feature the words ‘Teamwork, dedication, resilience’, surrounding an image of staff wearing face masks.

The original design of the medal was developed by Stephen Southern, a consultant from the Mid Yorkshire Hospitals NHS Trust. South West Yorkshire Partnership NHS Foundation Trust’s medal features Pinderfields Hospital’s clock house tower depicted on the back in tribute to the original design.

Stephen Southern said: “I was really pleased to be able to work with South West Yorkshire Partnership NHS Foundation Trust to design a custom medal to recognise the efforts of their staff. I hope all the staff can look at their medal and be reminded of their remarkable efforts and contribution to the NHS through this challenging time.”

Chief executive of the Trust Mark Brooks said: “The way our staff responded to the pandemic was incredible. In the face of uncertainty, our staff rallied together to continue providing the services which so many people depend on. It is no exaggeration to say that the service of our staff, alongside all our key worker colleagues, will be remembered by future generations. This medal is a poignant keepsake for our staff to share with pride.”

Trust chair Marie Burnham said: “I am so proud of all our staff for their bravery and dedication throughout the pandemic. Our services were able to continue, and in many cases even improve, despite the challenges everyone was facing both personally and professionally. We rightly saw respect for the NHS and frontline workers skyrocket during the pandemic with thanks to the actions of health and care staff like ours across the country.”