Pair invited to St James’s Palace for royal reception

Two of our employees were invited to a royal reception celebrating the often unsung impact of people working in local and regional government.

Cheryl Mehta and Lucas Allison joined council workers from authorities throughout the UK at St James’s Palace for the event, which was hosted by their Majesties the King and Queen. 

Cheryl, who is a recruitment consultant for diverse talent and chairs our BME Workers Forum, has been at the council for more than a decade, having previously worked in housing and adult social care.

As well as those roles, she is also a care officer at Ireland Lodge, working weekends and bank holidays when they are short staffed, and has just completed our Future Leadership Diverse Talent Programme.

Royals given insight into vital work

Cheryl was delighted to not only meet the royals but also give them an insight into the work being done here in Brighton & Hove.

She said: “I had a lovely conversation with the King and Queen, as well as with the Duke and Duchess of Gloucester, and they were keen to hear about the equity, inclusion and diversity work I have been leading.

“At one point, the King asked me: “Have you made a difference?” I was proud to be able to say I have.

“I hope to continue making a difference even if it’s a small one because every positive change matters.

“I was brought up in Hove and I am proud to work for our local council and serve our community. I really enjoy the variety of my work, the opportunity to help people, and the chance to make a meaningful difference.”

Honoured to be nominated

Lucas, who works as a homelessness prevention officer, was equally honoured to have been nominated to attend the event – and similarly keen to highlight the importance of the work being done locally. 

Lucas said: “It was great to be nominated and have the chance to speak about the challenges we face and the work being done across the sector.

“Homelessness is an issue I care deeply about, and it’s something I experienced as a young adult leaving care. Safe, secure and stable housing was pivotal in me being able to move forward with my life and I believe it is something everyone should have access to.

“I’m fortunate enough to work with lots of dedicated people and organisations who work tirelessly with stretched services and limited resources to support people who need it most. 

“I like working with people face to face, which is something I get to do lots of, and I feel like I learn a lot from both my colleagues and my clients.

“Brighton & Hove is a great city, and every day in my job is unique. I can’t imagine doing anything else.”

The best of Brighton & Hove

Both Cheryl and Lucas were nominated by Jess Gibbons, chief executive of Brighton & Hove City Council, who was full of praise for the pair.

She said: “Cheryl and Lucas represent everything that is fantastic about people working in local government. 

“The work they both do has a genuine impact on people in our city and they represent the very best of not just this council, but also Brighton & Hove.” 

Cheryl Mehta and Lucas Allison