patrickvernon.org.uk

My thanks to Ros Griffiths, Founder of the Big Caribbean Lunch and Chair of Friends of Windrush Square, together with the volunteers, artists, traders, performers and partners who continue to make this gathering such a special part of London’s Windrush calendar. What began as a community initiative has become an important annual space for remembrance, celebration and intergenerational connection. Today reminded us that Windrush is much more than a historical event. It is about family.

Jamaicans Sir Patrick Vernon and Dame Beverley Lindsay are among the honourees on King Charles’ 2026 birthday list. Vernon, who currently serves on the Global Jamaica Diaspora Council for United Kingdom (UK) South, was honoured for his contribution to racial equity, health equity and to social justice. Lindsay was honoured for her service to the West Midlands and to charity.

11th Biennial Jamaica Diaspora Conference Opens in Montego Bay The 11th Biennial Jamaica Diaspora Conference officially opened on 15 June 2026 at the Montego Bay Convention Centre, bringing together Jamaicans from across the globe to strengthen connections and partnerships with the homeland.

The Churchill Fellowship has congratulated eight Fellows who have been recognised in the King’s Birthday Honours 2026 for their outstanding contributions across a wide range of fields. Among those honoured is Sir Professor Patrick Vernon, who received a knighthood for services to racial equality, and Dame Crystal Oldman, awarded a DBE for services to nursing.

Celebrating the King’s Birthday Honours 2026 The King’s Birthday Honours 2026 have been announced, recognising the achievements and service of extraordinary people across the UK. From community champions and healthcare professionals to leaders in sport, education, the arts, and public service, the honours celebrate those who have made a lasting impact on society. Congratulations to all recipients whose dedication, commitment, and contributions continue to inspire communities across the nation.

King’s Birthday Honours 2026: Celebrating Excellence Across the UK The King’s Birthday Honours 2026 recognise hundreds of individuals who have made outstanding contributions to British society across fields including sport, entertainment, healthcare, education, business and social justice. This year’s list honours both well-known public figures and community leaders whose work has created a lasting impact.

King Charles’ Birthday Honours 2026: Celebrating Impact Across the West Midlands The 2026 King’s Birthday Honours recognise individuals across the West Midlands, Staffordshire, and Worcestershire for their contributions to society spanning public service, healthcare, education, music, and community work. At its core, the honours list is a celebration of people who have dedicated their lives to making a meaningful difference whether through decades of service or impactful cultural contributions.

I welcome the recent Government announcement recognising the importance of increasing the participation of Black men in clinical trials. Improving representation in research is an important step towards tackling longstanding health inequalities and ensuring that prevention, diagnosis and treatment pathways are effective for everyone.

Patrick Vernon on Joining PureGym’s Opening Patrick Vernon’s work has spanned decades and continues to shape both local and national conversations. Best known for founding Windrush Day, this milestone honours the legacy and contributions of the Windrush generation across Britain. Throughout the years, the focus has remained on championing equality, diversity, social justice, and mental health awareness—issues that remain deeply important within communities today.

Attending in his capacity as Chair of the Windrush 100 Network and Trustee of British Future, Vernon was joined by founder Dr Les Johnson, fellow trustees Denize L. and Dr Barbara Adewumi, SFHEA, as well as Elaine Baldry, curator of the Windrush Food Exhibition, and a group of engaged and inspiring interns. The visit extended beyond a guided tour, offering an important opportunity to explore future collaboration, partnerships, and shared ambitions.