A DUDLEY pharmacist who 'lives and breathes the values of the NHS' has been honoured in Parliament with a national award for her contribution to the health service.

Olutayo Arikawe, from the The Priory Community Pharmacy in Dudley won the Excellence in Healthcare Award category at the NHS Parliamentary Awards in Westminster’s Terrace Pavilion.

Olutayo was nominated by Ian Austin MP for her work in taking the pharmacy out into the community, by turning the pharmacy into a vibrant community hub on the Priory Road.

She regularly goes above and beyond what is expected of a pharmacist, by running a community garden and holding prevention awareness events in care homes and workplaces and colleges for falls, Type 2 diabetes, and cancer.

Responding to her win, Olutayo said: "It's amazing to be recognised for the work the pharmacy does, I represent a lot of pharmacists in our community who work hard for their patients."

Ian Austin MP for Dudley North said: "“I am thrilled to see Olutayo recognised alongside today’s NHS Parliamentary winners. She encapsulates the amazing work of NHS staff and volunteers across the West Midlands. The NHS is a much loved institution and it is people like Olutayo who help make it so. She is a passionate supporter, and encourages the general well-being of her community. Her pharmacy is part of the fabric of the local community, a place people want to visit.”

Nigel Sturrock, Regional Medical Director NHS England and NHS Improvement Midlands added: “I am delighted to see a Midlands winner today.

"Olutayo Arikawe exemplifies the good things that can happen when people share their passion for healthcare. She lives and breathes the values of the NHS and this award recognises her excellent work.

"I would also like to pay tribute to all the other Midlands nominees whose amazing work and dedication is reflected in the way the NHS runs every single day.”