A palliative nurse at a Bedfordshire hospice has been recognised for his work in improving the accessibility and inclusivity of compassionate end-of-life care.

Mark Pedder, inclusive health palliative clinical nurse specialist at Keech Hospice Care in Luton, received the Health Hero Award for his free webinars helping professional carers and the public understand the unique needs of LGBTQIA+ individuals with a terminal diagnosis.

Pedder said: “I was very touched just to be shortlisted and invited to the event, especially when there’s such great work being done in our community. It was overwhelming to receive the award and achieve the recognition. I chose a career in compassionate and inclusive end-of-life care because I saw from an early age how important it was. Receiving this accolade is incredible, because it brings healthcare equality into the spotlight and helps raise awareness of it to a wider audience. Thank you so much to everyone for all the kindness and support shown to me.”

The hospice nurse is now working on a new initiative to help people in the local homeless community access end-of-life care.

The Health Hero honour was awarded to Pedder by Love Luton as part of their Luton’s Best awards.