Goodbye to Sandria after 39-year NHS career
Published on 26/06/2025
After 39 years working in the NHS, with 21 of those spent at Good Hope Hospital, Sandria Brown, Housekeeping Manager, is retiring.
Sandria started her NHS career in 1986, as a chef at City Hospital (Dudley Road) and was quickly promoted to head chef the following year. She came to Good Hope Hospital on secondment as a housekeeping manager in August 2004… and never looked back!
In 2006, Sandria received the Chairman’s Award for going ‘over and above the call of duty.’
Sandria added: “I have enjoyed been part of a team that has understood the importance of cleaning and the effect it has on service users’ recovery and wellbeing. My aim has always been for cleaning to be seen as a profession and vocation which people are proud to work in. I strongly believe that cleaning is a science as cooking is an art - everyone can clean but that does not make them a competent housekeeping operative. Most people can cook but that does not qualify you as a chef!”
A lecture theatre packed-full of her colleagues from across the hospital said goodbye to Sandria and wished her well for her retirement.
Albert Yeboah, Deputy Housekeeping Manager, said: “Sandria’s leadership has been nothing short of inspiring. You’ve shown us the value of hard work, equality, and treating everyone with kindness. We hope you enjoy your well-deserved retirement to the fullest, knowing you’ve made an incredible impact. Thank you for everything.”
Julie Taylor, Senior Facilities Manager, added: “Sandria has always been a team player with an infectious sense of humour. She’s approachable, supportive and always fair and balanced. In all my years of being in the NHS, I have never seen a housekeeping team who are as motivated, positive and always up for the challenge. This is in a large part due to Sandria’s leadership. She has always thought it important to thank her team for a job well done. She will be deeply missed by us all.”
Sandria is hoping to spend more time with her family, especially her four grandchildren, take more trips abroad and might even be joining a gym.
She added: “I will miss the housekeeping team’s ‘can do’ attitude, and their friendliness. I will miss their determination and competitiveness to achieve the highest cleaning standard for patients, visitors and colleagues at Good Hope Hospital.”
