BLACK HISTORY MONTH
Steele’s Historic Appointment as First Black Matron
“Celebrating the incredible legacy of Daphne Steele, the first Black matron in the NHS. Her groundbreaking achievements in nursing and midwifery paved the way for diversity and inclusion in healthcare, inspiring generations of nurses to come.”
BWSMCONTRIBUTOR
The strength of the NHS nursing workforce lies in its diversity, with professionals from all over the world bringing unique perspectives and skills to healthcare.
Yet, for decades, the hard work and dedication of Black nurses and other minority healthcare staff were not always met with equal recognition. However, change is gradually taking place.
Daphne Steele was the first Black matron in the NHS, a milestone that broke barriers and reshaped the expectations for women of color in the healthcare profession. Born in Guyana in 1927, Steele arrived in the UK in 1951 at the age of 24, eager to contribute to the newly formed NHS, which had been established just three years prior. Like many immigrants, her early experiences were challenging, but she persevered, driven by a determination to make a meaningful difference and pave the way for others.
Thirteen years after arriving in the UK, Steele made history when she was appointed matron at St Winifred’s Nursing Home in Ilkley, West Yorkshire, in August 1964.
At the time, it was extremely rare for a Black woman to hold such a senior position, making her appointment both groundbreaking and inspiring. Her achievement attracted significant press attention and discussion, not only because of her race but also because her role symbolized a shift in the inclusivity of the NHS—a service that, over time, would come to be known for its diverse workforce.
Steele’s appointment as matron was a turning point not only in her career but in the history of the NHS.
Her presence in this leadership role challenged racial and social norms, helping to create opportunities for nurses from all backgrounds to contribute to the national health service.
She received over 350 letters of congratulations from across the country, a testament to the significance of her appointment and its impact on both the local and national stage.
Steele’s contributions went beyond breaking racial barriers. As both a nurse and a midwife, she provided exceptional care throughout her career.
In her first year at St Winifred’s, she delivered her first baby on the wards just two months into her new role and went on to oversee 250 to 300 births annually. Throughout her career, she personally delivered 200 babies, a remarkable achievement that speaks to her commitment to patient care.
When St Winifred’s Nursing Home closed in 1971, Steele continued to serve her community, first at Wharfedale Children’s Hospital and later as a health visitor in Leeds.
Throughout her career, she was known for her warmth, compassion, and dedication, touching the lives of countless families. Her legacy of care, leadership, and quiet revolution remains a source of inspiration to this day.
Recognition for Daphne Steele’s incredible work came later in her life. In 2001, she was honorued with an award from the Guyanese High Commission, an achievement she described as “smashing.”
The following year, she had the honor of carrying the Queen’s Jubilee relay baton in Shipley to mark Queen Elizabeth II’s Golden Jubilee, proudly representing her Commonwealth heritage and her local community.
In 2023, Daphne Steele’s contributions were further immortalised with a blue plaque unveiled in her honor at Hillside Court in Ilkley, the former site of St Winifred’s Nursing Home, where she made history as the first Black matron in the NHS. This recognition cementsed her legacy as a trailblazer whose work continues to inspire nurses and healthcare professionals today.
In celebrating Black History Month, we honour the legacy of Daphne Steele, whose determination, courage, and commitment helped transform the NHS and opened doors for countless other nurses from diverse backgrounds.
Her story is a reminder of the importance of diversity in our healthcare system and the profound impact that individuals can have in shaping its future.
SECURE YOUR TICKETS NOW for the 2nd Spirit of the Caribbean Annual Ball & Black Honour Awards on Saturday, October 26, 2024, from 7.30 pm to 02.00 am.
The night features a reception, networking, and awards ceremony honouring those who have made significant impact within and beyond our community. Post-awards, prepare for live entertainment and dancing until 02:00 am. The event, a symbol of shared heritage, showcasing Caribbean Excellent.
Dress code is black tie.
Tickets can be purchased on Eventbrite (booking fees apply)
or from Event Connoisseurs: with no booking fee.
For more details, contact us at
enquiries@eventconnoisseurs.com
