Two members of NHS staff working in North West London were recognised in the 2024 New Year Honours List for their contributions in health and social care.
This list celebrates the accomplishments and service of extraordinary people across the UK. The individuals who have been recognised are Dr Fiona Butler and Dr Meenakshi Nagpaul and we spoke to them about their accolades.
Dr Fiona Butler
GP at Health Partners at Violet Melchett and Clinical Director of Brompton Health PCN, Fiona has been awarded a British Empire Medal (BEM) for services to the community in West London.
Fiona has been GP Principal at her practice for over 15 years, supporting almost 10,000 patients. She is the clinical lead for social inclusion, mental health and homeless health. Through leading the ‘Out of Hospital’ strategy, the ‘My Care My Way’ service for the over-65s, and Community Living Well for those with mental health needs, Fiona is responsible for developing more integrated services in the community.
Fiona responded to this accolade, saying:
“I am delighted to receive this award for services to health in West London. I have felt privileged as a local GP to hold leadership roles in both commissioning and providing services over many years. It is with the support of colleagues across partner organisations and the community that I have been able to play my part in development and delivery of truly integrated services for local people.”
“I have long believed that 'health' is more than the absence of illness, and we need to address the wider determinants of health with parity of focus on wellbeing alongside physical health needs. To see this vision unfold at the Violet Melchett Health and Wellbeing Hub as part of development of integrated neighbourhood teams is very rewarding.”
Dr Meenakshi Nagpaul (Meena Thakur)
A GP at Honeypot Medical Centre and Clinical Director, Harrow East Primary Care Network, Meena has been awarded an MBE for services to the NHS.
Meena has been serving the community in Harrow for almost 30 years, establishing and supporting services that help some of the most vulnerable patients. Examples include: setting up the first virtual ward in Harrow East; establishing the first Covid-19 vaccination centre in Harrow; helping set up a falls prevention service with Age UK, all while caring for a patient population of almost 17,500.
In response to her MBE, Meena said:
“I’m deeply humbled and honoured to receive this award…This award is a reflection of the support and dedication of an amazing team of staff, colleagues and volunteers at Honeypot Medical Centre and Harrow East Primary Care Network, where together we strive to make a positive difference to the health and lives of our patients and our local community.”
In response to Meena’s accolade, Harrow East PCN issued a statement:
“We're delighted that our PCN Clinical Director, Meena Thakur, has been awarded an MBE in the Kings New Year's Honours list! Meena has worked tirelessly to enhance care & services for our multi-ethnic community, tackle inequalities & increase support to our three member GP practices.”
Following the announcement of the Honours list, NHS North West London ICB Chief Executive, Rob Hurd said:
“Congratulations to Meena and Fiona on their richly deserved recognition in the 2024 New Year Honours List. Thank you for all that you do, and for your ongoing commitment to improving health outcomes for patients and communities in NW London.”
Dozens of NHS staff across the UK have been recognised this year, including nurses, doctors and surgeons. Congratulations to all honourees, and thank you to all NHS staff working hard to deliver the best possible care for patients.