A Warrington-linked nurse has been appointed a Member of the Order of the British Empire (MBE) in recognition of her work supporting the resettlement of displaced Afghan families.
Local nurse honoured for Operation Lazurite work
Emma Grimshaw, the named nurse for safeguarding and children in care at North Cheshire and Mersey NHS Foundation Trust, received the honour at an investiture at Windsor Castle. The award recognises her contribution during Operation Lazurite, the complex national operation to relocate and support families fleeing Afghanistan.
Ms Grimshaw, who lives in Wigan and is a captain in the Army Reserves as well as an NHS nurse of more than 15 years, was temporarily released from her NHS duties to work on a military base helping families access housing and integration support prior to permanent settlement.
"Attending Windsor Castle and being presented with an MBE by His Majesty the King was an incredibly proud moment. It was a day that I will never forget," Ms Grimshaw said.
She emphasised that the honour reflects a collective effort, acknowledging colleagues from both her civilian nursing role and military service. In comments reported by her employer, Ms Grimshaw said the work has been guided by teamwork and a commitment to safeguarding vulnerable children and families.
What her role involved
The rescue and resettlement operation required coordination between defence personnel, NHS staff and civil authorities. Ms Grimshaw’s contribution combined clinical safeguarding expertise with practical assistance to help families settle into UK life.
- Provided housing support on a military base to displaced families
- Assisted with integration and transition to permanent homes
- Applied safeguarding experience for children in care and vulnerable families
| Role | Context |
|---|---|
| NHS named nurse for safeguarding and children in care | North Cheshire and Mersey NHS Foundation Trust |
| Army Reserves captain | Deployed to support Operation Lazurite |
Ali Kennah, chief nurse for North Cheshire and Mersey, praised Ms Grimshaw’s achievement and the recognition for this important work. The MBE was included in the New Year Honours list and presented during the royal investiture.
Local significance
The award underlines the role local health professionals play in national and international crises, and highlights how NHS staff may be called on to support operations beyond routine clinical duties. For Warrington and neighbouring areas, Ms Grimshaw’s recognition illustrates the combined civilian and military response required to settle vulnerable families safely.
Residents seeking more information about local safeguarding services or support for refugees and asylum seekers should consult the North Cheshire and Mersey NHS Foundation Trust website or contact local council services for guidance on available help and community integration programmes.
This coverage is based on statements from North Cheshire and Mersey NHS Foundation Trust and remarks made by Ms Grimshaw following the investiture.
