Three NHS colleagues from the North West have been recognised for their contributions to healthcare, along with dozens of other NHS staff across the country in this year’s list, ahead of the health service’s 75th birthday.

Richard Barker, Regional Director of NHS England – North West said: “I’m incredibly proud of colleagues working across our region who have been recognised in the King’s New Year’s Honours, for their dedication, innovation and outstanding contribution to healthcare, for going the extra mile, and representing the best of the NHS in everything they do.

“The NHS has faced a very challenging few years but the continued efforts of staff across the North West and beyond is inspiring, and I’d like to take this opportunity to also praise and say a huge thank you to all staff who have worked so hard this year to provide the best care for those living in our communities.”

Karen Howell, Chief Executive of Wirral Community NHS Foundation Trust has been awarded an OBE for services to health care. Commenting on receiving the honour, Karen said: “It is such an honour to be recognised for my service to Health Care. This is recognition of a life-time’s working. I joined the NHS at 15-years old as a Nurse Cadet working whilst still at school on a Saturday morning. I have been proud to dedicate my life to the NHS as a nurse and a manager and I feel very privileged to have had such a wonderful career.”

Dr Wirinder Bhatiani, former chair of NHS Bolton CCG, receives a BEM for services to health and diversity in Greater Manchester. Wirin said: “It is an honour and a privilege to receive this recognition; this reflects the work of the CCG working in partnership with our GPs, the hospital, the council and the voluntary sector. My thoughts are currently with the health and care staff who are working in an extremely difficult situation.”

Professor Charlotte Anne Skitterall, group chief pharmacist at Manchester University NHS Foundation Trust has been awarded an MBE for services to pharmacy. Commenting on her honour, Charlotte said: “I feel humbled to receive this honour and I believe my achievement is a reflection of the fantastic dedication and teamwork of my colleagues at the trust.”

You can see the full list of recipients for the New Year’s Honours on the government website from Sunday 01 January 2023.