Manchester Royal Infirmary retains royal patronage

Manchester Royal Infirmary has retained its royal patronage from the royal family as part of a celebration marking the anniversary of the coronation of King Charles III and Queen Camilla.

Members of the Royal Family serve as patrons of more than 3,000 charities, military associations, professional bodies and public service organizations in the United Kingdom, the Commonwealth and around the world.

As a result of patronage, the hospital will receive invitations to special events and may even nominate staff who have provided outstanding service to attend royal events such as Garden Parties.

The University of Manchester NHS Foundation Trust is also home to two other hospitals that have previously been granted this status, the Royal Manchester Eye Hospital was accredited in 1867 and the Royal Manchester Children’s Hospital in 1923.

Kathy Cowell OBE DL, Chair of the University of Manchester NHS Foundation Trust, said: “I am delighted that our hospital has retained the patronage of His Majesty King Charles III.

“Manchester Royal Infirmary plays a vital role in the health and wellbeing of people in Greater Manchester and is leading the way in innovative healthcare. This patronage is a fantastic recognition of the importance of our hospital and recognition of the incredible work our teams do every day.”

Manchester Royal Infirmary was founded in 1752 and received patronage in 1830 – giving it ‘royal’ status. The hospital also welcomed King Charles III as part of a visit in 1997. It is now the regional and national center for services as diverse as kidney and pancreas transplants, sickle cell disease, hematology, vascular, trauma major, liver and pancreatic surgery, rheumatology and HIV care.

Mark Cubbon, Group Chief Executive of Manchester University NHS Foundation Trust, said: “We are honored to continue to have the patronage of the Monarch, which we have enjoyed since 1830. We have ambitious plans for the future of Manchester Royal Infirmary, including Project RED, which will see a £40m investment in the site. This brings a redevelopment of the Emergency Department and the addition of new theatres, helping to improve waiting times for patients.”

Antony Johnson, Assistant Director of Nursing at Manchester Royal Infirmary said: “Over the last few years our hospital has been pioneering new ways of treating patients. From our same-day urgent care services for frail patients, to our ‘opt-out’ HIV testing scheme; we are always innovating. As one of Greater Manchester’s busiest hospitals, it’s great to receive royal recognition.”