Alison Bunce, founder of Compassionate Inverclyde, has been recognised in the 2025 New Year Honours list with a British Empire Medal (BEM) for her outstanding contribution to the local community.

Alison, who began her nursing career in 1981, has worked in a variety of roles across hospitals and hospices, including as Director of Care at Ardgowan Hospice. Her dedication to palliative care and her drive to make a difference have been at the heart of her work for over four decades.

In 2016, she launched Compassionate Inverclyde, which has grown into a vital independent charity. Key initiatives include No One Dies Alone (NODA), offering comfort to people in their final hours, and Back Home Boxes, providing practical support to those returning home from hospital.

Alison’s achievements have already earned her accolades such as the Queen’s Nurse award and Royal College of Nursing’s Nurse of the Year. Now, the BEM further acknowledges her exceptional efforts in bringing kindness and compassion to the forefront of the community.

This honour reflects not only Alison’s hard work but also the power of community spirit and the impact of initiatives like Compassionate Inverclyde. Congratulations, Alison, on this well-deserved recognition!