Staff from Southport and Ormskirk hospitals have been honoured for their courageous response to the Southport tragedy last summer.
The team received an emotional standing ovation as Mayor of the Liverpool City Region Steve Rotheram announced the Special Recognition Award at the Mersey and West Lancashire Teaching Hospitals NHS Trust staff awards, in recognition of their efforts to support the patients and families involved.
Mr Rotheram presented the honour to Rev Martin Abrams, the Spiritual Care and Chaplaincy Manager at the Trust, who was awarded an MBE for his work in the King’s Birthday Honours in June.
Rev Abrams, who led the moving vigil in the Town Hall gardens in Southport just 24 hours after the Southport tragedy last summer, was among five colleagues at Southport and Ormskirk hospitals who were included in the Honours list last month.
Speaking at the MWL Staff Awards, Metro Mayor Steve Rotheram said: “It is an honour to be here this evening to present this special award.
“On July 29th 2024, our Southport Community was rocked by unimaginable tragedy, the likes of which we have never seen before, and we hope we will never see again.
“On that day, staff from both Southport and Ormskirk hospitals responded with the highest levels of professionalism, compassion and courage.
“It’s impossible for me to imagine what that took and on behalf of your entire community I really do want to thank everyone involved.
“I know many of your colleagues are still trying to come to terms with the events of that day and that will continue for some time to come, but please know that we will be forever grateful for the care you provided to all those affected.”
Over 1,200 people took to their feet in an overwhelming outpouring of respect and appreciation, as Reverend Martin Abrams MBE accepted the award on behalf of the entire hospitals’ team.
Alongside the Mayor, Trust Chief Executive Rob Cooper also paid tribute to his staff.
Rob Cooper said: “This special recognition award is presented to our colleagues who responded without question and gave their all to care for those who needed them.
“The award is not just on behalf of the Trust, but also on behalf of the entire community who I know share in our pride and gratitude for everyone who responded with such courage and professionalism.”
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