Director of Patient Services, Claire Harley, was delighted to welcome Damian Green MP on a visit to the hospital on Friday 2 September.
Damian, Conservative MP for Ashford was given a tour of Benenden Hospital, where he spoke to staff from many departments including Sandeep Wildman - Pharmacy Manager, Holly Wilde – Senior Endoscopy Nurse, Ryan Young - Theatre Manager and Karen Woods – Staff Nurse.
Damian also met Kathy Howard, Continence Specialist Nurse who has been shortlisted for the prestigious 2022 Nursing Times Awards for Nurse of the Year. Kathy talked him through her spectacular 62-year career in nursing. It was a special moment for Kathy to meet him.
Opening of the Wildflower Meadow
Following on from the hospital tour, Damian officially opened the Wildflower Meadow. The area, which was being using as an overflow car park, has been restored to a natural environment with specific grass seeding and some native trees including Acer Campestre and Quercus Robur, with the final visit being made to Edna’s Retreat – our beautiful sensory garden.
Claire Harley, Director of Patient Services said: “It was a pleasure to welcome Damian Green MP to our hospital. I valued the opportunity to talk to him about the history of our CQC rated 'Outstanding' hospital, the services and treatments we provide to our patients and for him to meet some of our amazing staff who make Benenden Hospital a special place to work.
“I would like to say thank you to Damian for taking the time out of his busy diary and visiting us and we look forward to welcoming him back very soon”
Damian Green MP said: “I know how recovery for patients can be improved and speeded up by a peaceful environment for their recuperation. The Wildflower Meadow will provide a perfect place for anyone to recover their spirits and feel better about the world.”
Published on 06 September 2022