King’s College Hospital attend Royal reception at Buckingham Palace

15 May 2024 - King’s College Hospital staff received at Buckingham Palace to meet The Queen

Staff at The Havens, a group of sexual assault referral centres managed by King’s College Hospital NHS Foundation Trust, were invited to attend a Royal reception at Buckingham Palace on 1 May 2024.

The Queen hosted the reception to thank organisations and individuals for their work supporting survivors of rape and sexual abuse, and to relaunch Her Majesty’s Wash Bags project. This scheme provides a wash bag of toiletries such as shampoo, shower gel, a tooth brush and toothpaste for people to use following a forensic examination.

Rashidah Naumsisi, Matron at The Havens, and Lorette Runacres, Lead Nurse at The Havens, joined individuals and organisations across the UK who are dedicated to supporting survivors of rape and sexual abuse.

Rashidah Naumsisi, Matron at The Havens, which is managed by King’s College Hospital, said: “It was an honour to be part of this very special reception at Buckingham Palace.

“The Wash Bags project is a simple initiative, but we know that it makes a huge difference, giving people comfort and dignity when they are so vulnerable. Some of the people we support are instructed not to wash until after they have had an examination, and the wash bags help them feel more human. Our clients are often extremely moved to be given a wash bag, and it’s so rewarding to be part of this work.”