Charity Chief Officer receives High Sheriff award

The Chief Officer at Derby & Burton Hospitals Charity has received an award from the High Sheriff of Derbyshire, for her outstanding contribution to healthcare and charity management.

The award was presented by the present High Sheriff of Derbyshire, Ian Morgan OBE to Jill Matthews at a ceremony held at The Derbyshire County Cricket Club on 13th March 2025.

Appointed by the crown, The High Sheriff remains the Sovereign’s representative in the County for all matters relating to the Judiciary and the maintenance of law and order.

During the course of carrying out their duties, the High Sheriff comes across many people who are providing invaluable service to the community in which they live and work.  Jill’s award is one of many that will be presented to those who have made an outstanding contribution to any aspect of community life in Derbyshire.

Speaking about the award, Jill Matthews said, “I am very proud and humbled to receive this award from our High Sheriff. Having a career spanning over 40 years in the NHS and the Department of Health and Social Care, I have had the privilege of contributing to the development of our healthcare system both locally and nationally and more recently, leading the largest NHS charity in the East Midlands.

“Every day I am fortunate to work alongside the most dedicated and hardworking volunteers, NHS staff and support service teams and witness the exceptional care and support they deliver patients in Derby, Derbyshire and Staffordshire.

“Attending the awards ceremony yesterday was very special as I got to hear about the selfless and important work that is carried out every day, by those working across the charity sector.

“Being part of an event that also recognises individuals, who give
up their time to volunteer and help others, was truly humbling.”

Awards were also presented to other charitable leaders from across Derbyshire, including, Maria Hanson MBE who leads the Me&Dee charity, Ann Rowlands MBE, who leads Umbrella and Chris Edwards, Chair of Derby Kids Camp Committee.