Luton South MP 'delighted' as two local health teams shortlisted for NHS Parliamentary Awards

The NHS Parliamentary Awards were set up for the 70th birthday of the NHS to recognise the massive contribution made by its workforce.

The awards ceremony is scheduled for July 7 next year and will highlight some of the best examples of care provided by all NHS services, including hospitals, community services and local practices.

Rachel Hopkins was among over 260 MPs in England who put forward outstanding nominees, and two of her choices have been selected to represent the Eastern Region:

Luton & Bedfordshire Children's Rapid Response Team in the Excellence in Urgent and Emergency Care Award

This team has taken an innovative approach to design healthcare protocols aimed at caring for children and young people in the community. This has eased the need for people to attend Hospital or their GP, benefiting both the patient and provider.

Integrated Discharge Hubs, East London Foundation Trust in The Care and Compassion Award

The collaborative approach taken by this team is designed to discharge patients out of hospital and into a community-based setting. By working closely with care homes and local authorities, patients have benefited from a quick discharge from hospital and into a more familiar environment, while still receiving excellent care.

Ms Hopkins said: “Everyone in Luton is rightly proud of our local NHS and care services that have kept so many local people safe and healthy.

"The coronavirus pandemic has shown the determination and bravery of NHS staff and care workers across Luton.

"I’m delighted that these community-focused services have been shortlisted to represent the East of England in their categories."