Responding to the New Year Honours, RCN President Bejoy Sebastian said: 

“The warmest of congratulations to all the health and care staff who have been recognised in this way by our patron, the King. 

“Nursing is an incredible profession and seeing those working in it being honoured today is a moment of great pride. 

“It is an incredibly significant moment to see RCN Fellow Michelle Cox recognised for her services to nursing and patients. After winning a landmark race discrimination case against the NHS, she has gone on to campaign tirelessly for race equality across our health service, for both staff and those who access care. Her honour is great news in the fight against racism. 

“We are particularly delighted to see Deepa Korea of the RCN Foundation recognised. Her work and that of the organisation changes lives, supporting nursing staff through hardship, funding education and research opportunities and initiatives to improve patient care. 

“All those honoured today represent the very best in nursing and are an inspiration to us all.” 

Ends

Notes to editors

Michelle Cox won a landmark case against the NHS in 2023, with legal representation from the RCN. Details: Race discrimination: 'Imagine a world without it' | RCN Magazine | Royal College of Nursing