UCLH staff attend Downing Street Christmas lights switch on

Members of staff joined public sector workers and the Prime Minister, as the Downing Street Christmas lights were turned on this week.

The staff, who will all be working at UCLH on Christmas Day, were entered into a ballot to attend the event. 

Newly qualified midwife Emma Handley was one of the lucky UCLH staff who went to Downing Street and said:

“The Prime Minister thanked the public sector staff there for our work throughout the year and at Christmas. As midwives, we know that babies don’t stop being born when people are on holiday and it will be a privilege to help care for patients and babies this Christmas period.”

Jhamouna Lucka, deputy ward sister in the Acute Medical Unit, also attended and added:

“It was such a fantastic evening and a wonderful opportunity to be with other NHS and public sector workers in such a festive setting. The Christmas tree was beautiful and it was very exciting to see 10 Downing Street up close.”

Chief nurse, Vanessa Sweeney, said:

“I am very proud of all of our hardworking staff who care for patients and families every single day of the year, often while others are enjoying family and festive celebrations. It was lovely that some of our staff were able to attend and see the lights on one of the most famous Christmas trees in the country.”