King Edward VII’s Hospital has received the NHS Veteran Aware accreditation in time for its 125th anniversary this month, reaffirming its long-standing dedication to the military community.
Since its founding in 1899, King Edward VII’s Hospital has been synonymous with providing the best medical care to serving personnel, veterans, and their families. King Edward VII’s Hospital is the only independent hospital in London’s renowned Harley Street medical district to receive the Veteran Aware accreditation.
The accreditation is only awarded to providers who can demonstrate their commitment to eight core manifesto standards ranging from specialised staff training ensuring the unique needs of veterans are met, to having established links with local community services.
The award sits within a wider programme run by the Veterans Covenant Healthcare Alliance which seeks to deliver better health and wellbeing for the Armed Forces community, in line with the commitments of Armed Forces Act 2021.
King Edward VII’s Hospital’s Veteran Aware accreditation also coincides with its recent signing of the Armed Forces Covenant and participation in the Defence Employee Recognition Scheme. Together, these initiatives contribute to the hospital’s commitment to the military community as both a healthcare provider and an employer.
His Majesty The King, who succeeded Her Majesty The Late Queen Elizabeth as Patron of King Edward VII’s Hospital during this significant 125th anniversary year, is lending his support to the hospital’s charitable mission of providing exceptional care for current and former members of the Armed Forces. This patronage not only honours the hospital’s rich history but also continues a long-standing tradition established in 1899 when King Edward VII became its first patron.
King Edward VII’s Hospital is currently the only independent hospital in the UK under the patronage of His Majesty The King.
Ken Anderson, CEO of King Edward VII’s Hospital, said:
“Our commitment to outstanding patient care dates back to 1899, when sisters Agnes and Fanny Keyser devoted themselves to caring for sick and wounded officers returning from the Second Boer War.”
“As the only hospital in London’s Harley Street medical district to receive the Veteran Aware accreditation, I am proud to be leading an institution with a strong legacy of supporting the Armed Forces community.”
“It is a privilege to have joined the hospital as we celebrate our 125th anniversary and I look forward to offering more patients our exceptional personalised care. It’s an exciting time for the hospital as we expand our services, embrace innovative technologies, and continue to enhance patient care to meet the growing needs of our community.”
Captain Alex Horsfall, British Army, said:
“One of my fondest memories of King Edward VII’s was the people. The genuine undivided attention staff were all able to provide to the patients is laudable and I honestly believe this played an integral part in my recovery.
“The warmth from each and every interaction I had, whatever the time of day or night, whether about my health or simply an intimate chinwag, was strikingly memorable.”
