Hartlepool man awarded MBE by the King in New Year Honours list
A Hartlepool man has been awarded an MBE by King Charles III for helping patients with long-term health conditions return to work.
Martin Harvey received the honour in the New Year Honours list for his work with the Patient Advisory Service, where he helps patients in GP surgeries return to or find work.
Martin, who works for the Department of Work and Pensions (DWP), helps patients who have long-term health conditions find sustainable and suitable jobs alongside GPs and occupational health teams.
Having worked for the DWP since 1998, Martin is motivated by seeing the patients he has supported turn their lives around.
He said: “My initial response was shock. I questioned whether this was really for me. That was followed by immense pride.”
Work and Pensions Secretary, Pat McFadden, said: “It's fantastic to see our brilliant DWP staff recognised in the New Year Honours List, which celebrates extraordinary contributions to their communities and public service.
“I would like to thank and congratulate all of our DWP colleagues who have been awarded.”
Martin is among 10 staff members across the DWP who have been named in this year’s New Year Honour lists, which recognises the achievements and service of people across the UK.
There are 1,157 recipients in this year's list including actor and presenter Warwick Davis and quiz show host turned author Richard Osman, who both received an OBE.
Children's TV star Paul Chuckle, actor and singer Cynthia Erivo and singer Ellie Goulding were also recognised in the list, receiving MBEs.