On Wednesday 20^th July 2022, Paulette Hamilton MP received an honorary degree from Aston University for services to health equality.

In her previous role as Birmingham City Council’s Cabinet Member for Health and Social Care, Paulette helped lead the inquiry into Birmingham’s Covid-19 deaths in Black, Asian and minority ethnic (BAME) communities. Her work gained national recognition and in 2021 she was named the winner of a prestigious LGIU Councillor of the Year award.

Paulette is a qualified nurse and worked as a district nurse for 25 years before entering politics. Paulette was elected to Birmingham City Council in 2004, where she served her community for 18 years and in March 2022 Paulette was elected as the Member of Parliament for Birmingham Erdington. She made history by becoming Birmingham’s first ever black MP and was recently elected to serve on the Health and Social Care Committee in Parliament.

Commenting on the award, Paulette said, “I’m humbled to have received an honorary degree for services to health equality.

 

“Health and social care has been a huge part of my life, driven by my desire to help people.

 

“Thanks to everyone at Aston University and my heartfelt congratulations to all the students graduating.”

 

In her speech to graduates, Paulette said, “I have dedicated my life to public service. There is no greater reward than serving others – helping others better themselves and improve their circumstances whether that is through access to health and care services, improved housing or access to training.

 

“We can all, through small positive actions, change and improve lives for the better. If you want to change things, take the first step and just continue going – it will happen sometimes when you least expect it.

 

“Thank you so much for this wonderful honour, I am truly humbled to have received it.”