A memorial sculpture has been unveiled at Tameside General Hospital to pay tribute to Grant Maganga, a dedicated mental health nurse who lost his life to Covid.

The sculpture is situated in the Buckton Building garden, adjacent to Hurst Place mental health rehabilitation unit, where Grant worked for a decade.

The inscription on the sculpture commemorates Grant as "Our wonderful colleague and friend" and extends the tribute to all NHS workers who lost their lives during the pandemic.

The unveiling ceremony was attended by Grant's widow, Awa Bojang, and their two youngest sons. The event served as a poignant moment to remember Grant's significant contributions to his family, colleagues, and patients, says UNISON. 


Chair of Pennine Care NHS Foundation Trust Evelyn Asante-Mensah said:- "Grant's death in April 2020 was a devastating blow to us all. This memorial is a fitting tribute to a man who was not only an exceptional nurse but also a loving family man."


Trust chief executive Anthony Hassall said:- "Grant's legacy is one of unwavering commitment to mental health care. He has left an indelible impact on both his patients and colleagues."


Grant’s widow Awa Bojang said:- "Grant was taken from us at a time when we needed him the most. I am grateful for the support we received."

UNISON, Grant’s union, is planning to establish a permanent memorial for all those in the North West who lost their lives during the pandemic.