British Empire Medal presented to “inspirational” health visitor

Sunday 31 October 2021

Local health visitor Rachel Copeland has been awarded the British Empire Medal for her life-changing work with Guernsey families.

She received the medal from Guernsey’s Lieutenant-Governor, with her family, friends, and colleagues in attendance.

The British Empire medal for meritorious civil service is traditionally the most significant award presented at Government house.

“The story behind this particular award is quite remarkable," said His Excellency, Vice Admiral Sir Ian Corder. 

"Rachel Copeland’s many years of service as an inspirational States’ Health Visitor were matched by a parallel career as a volunteer, working in her own time across a range of third sector welfare organisations to improve the opportunities for some of the island’s most vulnerable families.”

Delighted to present the #Britishempiremedal on behalf of #TheQueen to Mrs Rachel Copeland here at @GvHouseGuernsey, for services to vulnerable families in #Guernsey. Her commitment and compassion continue to change lives for the better. Many congratulations and thank you! pic.twitter.com/EcedliNMuO

— Gov House Guernsey (@GvHouseGuernsey) October 30, 2021

“Her compassion, vision and determination to get things done have already improved the life-chances of so many young islanders and set a clear path for continuing success. That’s vitally important, not only for the families involved but also for the future of our whole community.”

Mrs Copeland was awarded the BEM for services to vulnerable families in Guernsey and her achievements include:

• Inspirational States of Guernsey Health Visitor and leading light in developing local welfare provision, who has given hope to many marginalised local families;

• 25 years dedicated to improving the opportunities for some of Guernsey’s most vulnerable families, including single teenage mothers;

• A parallel career as a volunteer in the same field, working with Third Sector housing, family planning and children’s welfare organisations;

• Helped to create a local parenting course for fathers, including those in prison;

• Closely involved in Every Child Our Future: a local initiative based on the UK’s 1001 Critical Days Agenda;

• Founded Bright Beginnings Children’s Centre, featuring a nursery, children’s centre, and café. Now very busy, with a waiting list, and employing a small team;

• Continues to volunteer throughout the Centre, at both operational and strategic levels, and remains a key member of the team.