A PROFESSOR from Worcester is among a number of county people to be recognised in the Queen’s New Year’s Honours.

Professor Dawn Brooker, who has dedicated more than 35 years of her life to improving care for people with dementia, has been awarded an MBE for services to supporting those with dementia through research, education and policy advocacy.

Her work has advanced professional practice and she is now one of the UK’s leading experts, whose work is well known around the world.

She said: “During my career, dementia has shifted from being a condition that many had never heard of to one that now affects most families in the UK.

“I am very grateful to be made an MBE for services to those affected by dementia.

However, I also feel humbled by the knowledge that we still have a long way to go to ensure that everyone gets the best treatment and care.

"I will use this award to play my part in making this a reality.”

Professor Brooker was awarded the Lifetime Achievement Award at the National Dementia Care Awards 2019 and earlier that year was named as one of Universities UK’s top 100 Lifesavers working in Higher Education.

Professor David Green CBE, University of Worcester vice chancellor and chief executive said: “The scale and purpose of Dawn’s achievements in dementia care is unique.

“She has created significant and life-changing practises to support people around the world and dedicated her professional life to ensuring the voice of people with dementia, as well as their families and carers, is heard in political and public forums.

"She has given a platform to and inspired those wanting to make a change to the way dementia is perceived and the ways in which people are cared for, always with the aim of helping people live as well as is possible with Dementia.

“Dawn’s reputation it truly global and she is one of the key advocates for truly sustainable and innovative ways of working.

"We are very proud of Dawn and all the colleagues working in the Association of Dementia Studies. This national award is truly deserved.”

Professor Brooker first chose to work in the field of dementia care more than 35 years ago, when it was very much a ‘Cinderella subject’, recognising its importance for millions of people.

She has strived to ensure those living with dementia and their families are not marginalised within society and has advocated for the voice of people with dementia to be heard.

Her work has advanced professional practice and she is now one of the UK’s leading experts, whose work is well known around the world.

Throughout her career, Professor Brooker has made a major, transformative contribution to improving standards of care.

She has served on many national and international bodies, provided evidence to Government enquiries and contributed to the G7 Action on Dementia and Action Against Dementia.

Another Worcestershire name on the list is Simon York, director of the Fraud Investigation Service, who was named a Commander of the Order of the British Empire for his work fighting against serious fraud.

He said: “I am delighted that HMRC’s great work tackling tax crime both at home and internationally has been recognised in this way.

"I have been fortunate to lead a very talented and committed group of people and this honour is as much for them as me.”

Another Worcestershire person to be honoured was Freda Davies, awarded the British Empire Medal for services to her community.

The 83 year-old has been involved in supporting Hallow Church and many charities for the last 50 years and said: “Without the support of many people who are not with us now I would not be receiving this award.”

In total she and others have worked together to raise £90,000 over those two decades for the church as she put her catering skills to good use.

Other Worcestershire names on the list include:

OBE: Dr Ann Marie Fitchett. lately policy and legislation principal, Defence Maritime Regulator. For services to Defence.

OBE: Caragh Merrick. trustee and chair of finance committee, Universities and Colleges Admissions Service (UCAS). For services to Higher Education.

MBE: Richard John Campbell. For services to the community in the West Midlands.

MBE: Dr Richard Harling. director of health and care, Staffordshire County Council. For services to Public Health and Adult Social Care, particularly during the Covid-19 Response.

BEM: Julia Elizabeth Micklewright. founder and chair, ASPIE. For services to people with Asperger’s Syndrome.