Hello my name is...

In 2016, Dr Kate Granger sadly passed away, just a few days after reaching her £250,000 fundraising target for our cancer centre.

Kate launched the #hellomynameis social media campaign, after her experience as a patient inspired her to encourage healthcare staff to introduce themselves to patients. To date, we are really proud that more than 13,000 of our staff have signed up to the campaign and pledged to provide patient-centred care to our patients. 

We set up a book of condolence in the Bexley Wing atrium at St James's Hospital so staff and visitors could share their memories of Kate, and our Chief Executive Julian Hartley shared this tribute to her. 

"She has been an inspiration to so many people during her all too short life and has achieved so much. Kate was an outstanding doctor here in Leeds, a committed fundraiser for our Yorkshire Cancer Centre Appeal and a true champion for patients everywhere." 

Julian also wrote this article in the Health Service Journal (HSJ) and spoke to BBC Look North about the impact #hellomynameis has had across the Trust, and the role it plays in our induction for new staff.  

Kate's friend and colleague Dr Ali Cracknell wrote this moving blog about her memories of working with Kate. 

"Kate - you have made a difference to us all, we all now do those “little things” better. Geriatrics is a better place thanks to you, our NHS is better for you, we have lost a true legend of Geriatrics and a very special person, friend and colleague."  

Our Chief Medical Officer spoke to Made in Leeds and ITV Calendar about Kate's lasting legacy here at the Trust.  

At our staff awards, we have The Kate Granger Award for Improving the Patient Experience in Kate’s memory to recognise those that go the extra mile in providing compassionate care for our patients.

Many of our staff proudly wear 'Hello My Name Is...' badges to show that they have made their pledge to support the campaign. The badges have been generously funded by our charity Leeds Cares.