Heartbeat: Dr Sarb Clare honoured by Chamber president

October 18, 2021

Described as a leading medic, whose efforts throughout the COVID-19 pandemic earned widespread praise, Dr Sarb Clare, Deputy Medical Director is the recipient of this year’s Birmingham Chamber of Commerce President’s Award.

Sarb was presented with the award by Chamber of Commerce president Steve Allen during the recent Greater Birmingham Chambers of Commerce’s 2021 annual awards.

Already the recipient of numerous accolades for her work – including an MBE in the Queen’s Birthday Honours List for services to the NHS during the pandemic – Sarb was recognised for her work to rewrite rotas overnight, create clinical pathways and deliver educational resources to redeploy staff, as well as supporting the wellbeing of her colleagues.

Mr Allen said: “This year I wanted to honour an individual who represents the very best qualities in the fight against coronavirus but someone who also had at the heart of their work innovation which is the theme of my term as president.

“Dr Sarb Clare is a frontline doctor who has treated hundreds of coronavirus patients and who was responsible for setting up the acute medicine department at City Hospital.

“In addition to all of this, Dr Clare was pivotal in introducing an award-winning wellbeing initiative – bringing in energy pods for staff during the pandemic which led to a significant improvement in the psychological, physical health, as well as the ability to manage stress for doctors working round the clock in the most adverse of conditions.”

Richard Beeken, Interim Chief Executive commented: “It is always a pleasure to see colleagues’ hard work and dedication recognised outside of our organisation. In the case of Sarb I am delighted that her efforts to continually maintain high standards of care whilst doing the right thing for her team has been acknowledged, and I am sure she is delighted with this award.”

Trust Chair Sir David Nicholson added: “Sarb is a role model and represents everything that is good about Sandwell and West Birmingham.”

Sarb said: “I am honoured to accept this prestigious award on behalf of our NHS and social care colleagues who day in and day out wake up every day and do what they are trained to do – providing care and compassion for the sick.

“My nursing team are my true inspiration. I would also like to dedicate this award to those who sadly lost their lives selflessly in the fight of this dreadful illness.”