After 27 years of dedicated service to the NHS, Kim Brown, Technical Lead in Biochemistry, has finally received the recognition she richly deserves through the gesh Long Service Awards.
Held in May at Epsom Downs Racecourse, the event brought together colleagues from across the organisation to celebrate individuals who have dedicated decades of their careers to supporting patients and delivering high-quality healthcare. For Kim, the award was particularly meaningful.
“I’d never had a long service award before,” she explained. “My career has been across different NHS organisations, so I wasn’t expecting it. When I found out the award recognised total NHS service, I thought, ‘Well, hello!’”
Although much has changed since she began her career nearly three decades ago, Kim says her passion for the profession remains as strong as ever.
“The volume of work has changed enormously and there’s far more automation now than when I started,” she said. “The working practices, hours and conditions have all evolved, but it still feels the same in many ways. It certainly doesn’t feel like 27 years.”
Kim’s career has taken her through some of London’s largest hospitals, including St Thomas’ Hospital, Croydon University Hospital and the Royal London Hospital, before returning to south London. Along the way, she has built lasting friendships, developed future leaders and helped countless colleagues grow in their careers.
When asked whether she would choose the same path again, her answer was simple.
“Probably. It’s mainly because of the people I’ve met along the way. I’ve made some really good friends and worked with some fantastic people. It’s been more good than bad.”
One of Kim’s proudest memories came when she left St Thomas’ Hospital, where she began her professional career.
“There were so many people who made the effort to come along to my leaving celebration. That’s always stayed with me.”
Throughout her career, Kim has remained committed to one principle: remembering that every sample represents a person.
“Sometimes in the laboratory it’s easy to forget because we don’t see patients face-to-face,” she said. “But every sample we process belongs to someone. I always tell people to think about how they would want their own family member’s sample to be treated.”
As she looks towards the future, Kim’s focus is firmly on supporting the next generation of laboratory professionals.
“You can’t keep all that knowledge to yourself,” she said. “It’s about passing it on. The people coming up behind us need guidance and support. If I can help someone develop, mentor them or share what I’ve learned, then that’s what I want to do.”
Kim’s commitment, professionalism and willingness to support others have earned her the respect of colleagues across the organisation. As she celebrates 27 years of NHS service, her career stands as a reminder of the vital role experienced professionals play in shaping the future of healthcare.
Congratulations, Kim, on this well-deserved recognition and thank you for your outstanding contribution to the NHS.