It was a very special moment for GBSS last month.
Our Chief Executive, Jane Plumb, attended a Royal Garden Party at Buckingham Palace, following a nomination from the Royal College of Obstetricians and Gynaecologists, RCOG. She attended with her husband Robert, who co‑founded the charity with her in 1996.
“It felt quietly surreal (and yes …. a little cold!)” said Jane.
But more than anything, the invitation felt like recognition of the whole GBSS community.
For nearly 30 years, GBSS has brought together families affected by group B Strep, clinicians working to improve care, researchers building the evidence, and supporters helping to drive change. Everything achieved so far has been a shared effort.
“Standing there in the Palace gardens wasn’t really about recognition for one person,” Jane said. “It felt like recognition that group B Strep matters – that preventing these infections in babies matters – and that the work so many people are doing is being seen.”
While progress has been made, group B Strep infection remains one of the most common causes of life‑threatening infection in newborn babies in the UK and globally. GBSS continues to work with partners to improve awareness, support families, strengthen clinical practice, and push for better prevention – including the development and introduction of vaccines.
Jane added: “We’ve come a long way since 1996, but we know there is more to do. Thank you to everyone who has been part of this journey.”
Photo: Jane and Robert at Buckingham Palace, May 2026
