Fiona Devine MBE: Celebrating a Moment of Honour at Windsor Castle 

Today marks a significant milestone for Alexander Devine Children’s Hospice Service and its visionary leader, Fiona Devine. We are proud to announce that Fiona has been at Windsor Castle today for her investiture ceremony, where she will be officially awarded the prestigious Member of the Order of the British Empire (MBE).  

This honour was bestowed upon her as part of the King’s Birthday Honours list, which we announced back in June 2024, a recognition of her tireless work in bringing Berkshire’s first children’s hospice to life and the incredible impact it continues to have on the lives of children with life-limiting conditions and their families. 

What It Means to Receive an MBE 

An MBE is one of the most respected accolades in Britain, awarded for outstanding contributions to the community, public service, or charitable work. It is part of the British honours system, established in 1917 by King George V to recognise both military and civilian achievements.  

Recipients of the MBE, like Fiona, have made a significant difference in their fields, embodying the spirit of selfless dedication and service to others. But for Fiona, the MBE not only celebrates her personal achievements but also the collective efforts of everyone involved with Alexander Devine.

“I am delighted to receive an MBE in the King’s Birthday Honours list. Whilst I feel an immense sense of personal pride in this recognition, our journey to deliver Berkshire’s first children’s hospice service has been the result of many remarkable individuals putting their time, energy, and dedication into our cause. 

It has been a privilege to lead this journey and to support so many incredible children and their families along the way. I would like to take this opportunity to thank all those who took part in the nomination process on my behalf, with a special mention to Debbie Tonkinson and Sally Sharp for coordinating and applying for the award.  

Also, my amazing children Caitlin, Harry, and my family. Ultimately, this honour is for Alexander. He epitomised all that was good in this world, he is loved and missed beyond measure.”

– Fiona Devine MBE

 Notable Names from the 2024 King’s Birthday Honours List 

Fiona joins a distinguished group of individuals in the 2024 King’s Birthday Honours list. Other notable recipients include: 

• Alan Bates: Knighted for his work highlighting the Post Office Horizon scandal. 

• Imelda Staunton: Damehood for her services to drama and charity 

• Tracey Emin: Damehood for her work as an artist 

• Mark Cavendish: Knighted for his achievements in cycling 

• Graeme Souness, Ally McCoist, and Karen Carney: Honored for their work as former international footballers.  

• Amy Dowden and Rose Ayling-Ellis: MBEs for their work on Strictly Come Dancing.  

• Monica Ali: Honoured for her work as an author.  

• Rebecca Ferguson: Honoured for her work as a singer.  

• Susie Dent: MBE for her work on Countdown.  

• Petty Officer Matthew Connick: MBE for his work to reduce the risk of the submarine fleet being detected by the enemy.  

• Professor Rachel Upthegrove: MBE for her work in mental health and life sciences research. 

It is fitting that Fiona’s name stands alongside such high-profile figures. Her work with Alexander Devine Children’s Hospice Service has transformed the lives of many families across Berkshire, providing essential care and support during the most challenging times. 

A Legacy of Dedication and Compassion 

Fiona’s journey to Windsor Castle today is deeply rooted in the personal tragedy and love that inspired the founding of Alexander Devine Children’s Hospice Service.  

The charity was named in memory of her beloved son, Alexander, who sadly passed away from a rare brain tumour in 2006. After Alexander’s death, Fiona and her family recognised a significant gap in children’s palliative care in Berkshire and committed themselves to creating a hospice that would provide vital care and support to children with life-limiting and life-threatening conditions and their families. 

Since its inception, Alexander Devine Children’s Hospice Service has grown into a lifeline for countless babies, children and young people, and their families. The hospice offers a wide range of services, from overnight respite care, day care, care in the community, family support, end-of-life care, and bereavement support, to creative therapies like hydrotherapy, music therapy and sensory play. Every child is given the space to be a child, with the hospice focusing on making life as joyful, comfortable, and full as possible. 

Fiona’s leadership and vision have been at the heart of this journey. Under her guidance, the hospice has continued to expand, offering a lifeline to families navigating the unimaginable challenges that come with having a child with a life-limiting and life-threatening condition.  

Her MBE is a testament not only to her personal dedication but also to the strength of the community that has rallied behind the cause. 

The History of the MBE 

The Order of the British Empire was founded in 1917 by King George V, during the height of World War I, as a way to honour civilians and military personnel who contributed to the war effort.  

The MBE, one of the five classes of the order, is specifically awarded to individuals who have made a significant impact in their profession or in their local communities through their charitable work or public service. Over the years, the honours system has evolved to include more civilians and people from all walks of life, recognising the importance of service beyond the battlefield. 

Being awarded an MBE is a symbol of excellence and dedication, and today, Fiona joins a long line of inspirational figures who have made a real difference in their communities. 

Why Fiona Was Selected for This Honour 

Fiona’s selection for the MBE reflects her unwavering dedication to children’s care and her ability to bring people together for a common cause. Through her efforts, she has raised awareness of the importance of providing tailored support to children with complex medical needs, ensuring they and their families receive not just medical care but also emotional and psychological support. 

The nomination process for an MBE is rigorous, and it’s clear that Fiona’s name rose to the top due to her deep commitment to improving the lives of those who need it most. The success of Alexander Devine Children’s Hospice Service is a direct reflection of her leadership, determination, and compassion. 

Today, as Fiona received her MBE at Windsor Castle, we celebrate not only her incredible achievements but also the legacy of love that inspired this journey. Her dedication, and the dedication of all those who work with and support Alexander Devine, has changed lives, and her recognition in the King’s Birthday Honours list is well deserved. 

Congratulations, Fiona, from everyone at Alexander Devine Children’s Hospice Service!