Matron Chris Kemp retires after 47 years at North Tees hospital

Hospital matron retires after more than 45 years’ service to the NHS

Chris Kemp is stepping down from her role as matron at the University Hospital of North Tees after a 47-year career, though her three daughters continue to serve at the same trust.

By The Tees Editorial Desk · 24 November 2022

Chris Kemp with her daughters at the hospital. Image: Image: North Tees and Hartlepool NHS Foundation TrustOriginal source

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After 47 years in the NHS, matron Chris Kemp has retired from the University Hospital of North Tees. Starting her career as a cadet nurse in 1975, she rose through the ranks from a staff nurse at Hartlepool General Hospital to her final leadership role on 33.

Kemp, 63, has spent the last 13 years at the North Tees site. Her retirement concludes a unique family working dynamic, as she has spent recent years working alongside her three daughters, who are all employed at the hospital as a bariatric specialist nurse, a ward matron, and an occupational therapist.

Reflecting on her career, Kemp noted that while her responsibilities changed over the decades, she remained committed to patient care and supporting her team’s morale. Colleagues praised her gentle leadership style and her role as a mentor within the trust.

Following an early retirement party held on 21 November, Kemp plans to travel, including a trip to New York, and spend more time with her granddaughter. Her daughters will remain at the trust to continue their careers in nursing and allied health professions.

Archive : This story is based on reporting originally published by North Tees and Hartlepool NHS Foundation Trust on 2022-11-24. The original source image has been and credited.