Team and Employee of the Month – August 2019

We can concentrate on hitting targets and meeting budgets but what matters more than anything in our Trust, is that we make a difference to people’s lives – no matter how long or short they may be.

So that’s why the winners of August’s Team of the Month award have made such an impression on me and the other judges because of the outstanding compassion they have demonstrated.

I am pleased to announce that the very worthy winners are our colleagues on Ward 4, our Medical Admissions Unit (MAU.)

This caring team was nominated by Lead Nurse for Palliative Care, Liz Price, who told Let’s Talk: “The ward has provided outstanding care for two patients who have been approaching the end of their life.

“One patient received the devastating news he had just days to live, and within hours the ward had arranged for him and his girlfriend to be married on the ward. Staff then arranged for them to stay on the ward overnight as a family, providing a cot so their one-year-old could also be with them.

“In the final hours and days of this patient’s life, they supported him and his family at this difficult time, demonstrating care and compassion at all times.

“The ward also supported another patient whose wish it was to die at home. The Ward 4 team worked with other teams to ensure the patient was discharged with the relevant care package and equipment in place, which enabled him to die peacefully at home with his family, several hours after leaving hospital.

“Ward 4 has worked well as a team and supported each other during these difficult times, whilst still managing a busy ward. They all went above and beyond and provided excellent and individualised patient care. They really deserve this award.”

At the presentation, our Chief Nurse Karen Dawber added her congratulations, telling staff: “The compassion and care you have shown has been heartening. You are all a shining example of fantastic care.

“I know that Ward 4 consistently receives good feedback from patients and this is truly well deserved. I am very proud of each and every one of you!”

Some of our staff ‘retire’ and then return to work for us – such is their dedication and passion for the job – and August’s Employee of the Month is a perfect example.

Congratulations to Lead Radiographer, Sandra Wood, whose encouragement and support has inspired her team.

Sandra ‘Sandy’ was nominated by Senior Radiographer, Gemma Butler, who said: “Sandy has recently been appointed plain film team leader in radiology after coming back to the Trust after retirement.

“She has a true passion for her job and all staff and patients in radiology. She is such a happy, bubbly person who lifts everyone’s spirits and is a true support and listening ear to everyone; nothing is too much for her.

“She is loved by all and is recognised by the whole team as an outstanding individual who has made a significant difference to our department in such a short space of time. She goes above and beyond what is expected of her and puts the needs of others before herself. She always gives 100% and really cares about all her staff and their wellbeing.”

Gemma added: “Sandy is keen to make positive changes in our department and is currently aiding in the recruitment and employment of over 10 new radiographers.

“She often works weekends and stays late to help the team and if we are happy she is happy. She is diamond and appreciated by all for her dedication for radiology and service improvement.”

A completely shell-shocked Sandy was presented with her certificate by our Director of Human Resources, Pat Campbell. She told everyone who had gathered for the surprise presentation: “This really should say Team of the Month rather than Employee of the Month because I can’t do my job without the support of such a fantastic team of people. They are the real stars!”