England’s most senior nurse has congratulated nursing and midwifery staff whose leadership, dedication and hard work have been recognised in the New Year’s Honours list.

Honours go to nurses and midwives from a range of services and roles including cancer nurse specialists, general practice nurses, a Chief Nurse, Director of Midwifery and a Damehood for the outgoing Chief Executive of the Royal College of Midwives.

NHS England’s Director of Nursing and Deputy Chief Nursing Officer for England, Hilary Garratt, has received a CBE for services to nursing and in particular, her work to safeguard some of the most vulnerable people in society.

Professor Jane Cummings, Chief Nursing Officer for England said: “I am delighted the significant work and amazing impact nurses and midwives have across the health and care system has again been recognised in today’s New Year’s Honours. I am also incredibly proud of what nurses and midwives have achieved over the last 12 months, despite the challenges faced, and I look forward to working with them all in the new year.”

On Hilary Garratt receiving a CBE: “Hilary is a true unsung hero, dedicated to improving the lives of the most vulnerable people in our society and I’m immensely pleased that the work she does, both for the NHS and in her own time, has been recognised.”

Hilary Garratt, NHS England’s Director of Nursing and Deputy Chief Nursing Officer for England, said: “This is a huge surprise and a tribute to the many individuals and organisations that are involved in our safeguarding work, which often happens quietly in the background of the NHS. I am passionate about bringing people and organisations together to protect vulnerable children and adults and it’s been a privilege to work closely with a range of inspiring people, including those with a lived experience of these issues. Together with the anti-slavery Commissioner, Government, Royal College of Nursing and others we are introducing training to front line staff, as well as a number of other initiatives to provide better ways to protect people from harm and abuse.”