Parminder, who is currently based at the Adult Health and Social Services Care Centre in Barkingside, has been recognised by the Queen for her services to the Sikh community – most notably as part of the UK Sikh Healthcare Chaplaincy Group (SHCG), with whom she has worked as a Coordinator since 2012.

Combining her healthcare background with her faith, Parminder has built strong relationships with the community, NHS England, and over 200 UK Gurdwaras (Sikh places of worship). She has also frequently been called upon at NELFT to use her interpreting skills in Punjabi, Hindi, and Urdu to support colleagues in understanding the needs of their patients.

When she is not working at NELFT or partnering with SHCG, Parminder works with hospices and volunteers as an Honorary Chaplain at hospitals across East London. Additionally, she is an Executive Member of the Sikh Women’s Alliance (SWA) – an organisation which aims to empower, inspire, and inform Sikh women to join mainstream UK society.

During the 2012 London Olympics, Parminder played her role as a community link and a Games Maker at the Aquatics Centre and, in 2014, was announced as the winner of the Redbridge Asian Women’s Achievement Award at an Education and Training Fair at Redbridge Town Hall.

Parminder said:

“I am truly humbled to receive this MBE. It makes me feel proud of what I have achieved in my lifetime so far. The work I do with hospitals, hospices, and healthcare centres across the UK means I am able to support people in very difficult situations. It is my honour to be able to do this.”

Kevin Sole, Assistant Integrated Care Director in Redbridge, said:

“As well as being a busy administrator for NELFT, Parminder finds time to work as a volunteer Chaplain across BHRUT and Goodmayes Hospital, further supporting many local hospices for adults and children. Her work has been especially important during these difficult times, as faith and the comfort it can bring has been indispensable to so many.

“Parminder is an inspiration to the organisation and to the Sikh community. We are truly delighted to see all her hard work recognised is this way – we wish her many congratulations and best wishes for this wonderfully deserved achievement.”