Islington Council staff recognised for Covid work in Queen’s Birthday honours

Tina Jegede and Oliur Rahman. Photographs: Islington Council

Two Town Hall workers have been recognised in the Queen’s Jubilee Birthday Honours for their community and social care work during the pandemic.

Tina Jegede, the council’s nurse lead for care home quality and joint director of race, equality, diversity and inclusion at Whittington Health NHS Trust, receives an MBE for her services to social care, including her vocal support for vaccine uptake.

Meanwhile, Islington Covid health champion Oliur Rahman is being celebrated for his efforts during outbreak. He has been awarded a British Empire Medal.

Jegede said: “I am thrilled to receive this honour. This is an acknowledgement of the hard work of every nurse and care worker in Islington; it is always a team effort.

“I have worked with extraordinary people over the years, so many of whom should share in this honour. I am so grateful for the opportunity to work for two organisations, teams and individual colleagues who have allowed me to thrive.”

Rahman added: “I am so very humbled and honoured to be receiving this award. I always strive, and encourage everyone, to be positive, polite, helpful and respectful of others.

“I want people to continue to think seriously about the good advice given by our health professionals – we need to support each other to have the correct information and make our community safe together.

“As long as I have breath, I will continue to work and support the community I live in and serve. Thank you so much.”

Islington’s acting public health chief, Jonathan O’Sullivan, said: “We are all delighted that Tina and Oliur have been recognised for their outstanding service and contribution to the community. They have worked tirelessly to protect our community from the impacts of Covid over the last two years. They are both thoroughly deserving of these great honours.”

The Queen’s Jubilee Birthday Honours List showcases exceptional public services performed by impressive individuals across the country. Dozens of people across different sectors have been recognised for their contributions, but the Honours List particularly focuses on those individuals who have taken an active role in their community.