NHS staff including King’s physician recognised in New Year Honours

Two members of staff from Guy’s and St Thomas’ NHS Foundation Trust have been recognised in the New Year Honours List.

Dr Penelope Shirlaw was made a Member of the Order of the British Empire (MBE) whilst Professor Richard Leach was made a Lieutenant of the Royal Victorian Order.

The awards recognised Dr Shirlaw for her 35 years of service in dentistry care. 

At Guy’s and St Thomas’ Dr Shirlaw has held multiple roles, including clinical director of the dental service. 

She played a key role in transforming outpatient care at the trust and was responsible for developing the local anaesthetic allergy service to ensure patients’ anaesthetic is personalised to them.

Currently, Dr Shirlaw is chair of the London region of the Local Dental Professional Network (LDN) and works with NHS England.

She said: “It was a tremendous honour to receive this award. 

“I have dedicated my career to the NHS, and the progress being made in dental and oral health care across the UK has been made possible by the support of wonderful colleagues along the way.”

Professor Leach was recognised for his service to the royal family. Alongside working at the hospital trust he was appointed The King’s Physician in 2022, and provides care for the Royal Family. 

Since starting at Guy’s and St Thomas’ in 1994, Professor Leach has been clinical director for both acute and pulmonary and critical care medicine. 

He said: “I have worked at the Trust for over 30 years.

“During this time, it has been a privilege to care for so many patients, help train numerous junior colleagues, and make many lifelong friendships”.

Pictured top: From left, Dr Penelope Shirlaw and Professor Richard Leach (Picture: Guy’s and St Thomas’ NHS Foundation Trust)