A trainee nursing associate (TNA) at Bradford Royal Infirmary (BRI) has been given a highly commended award at a regional ceremony celebrating apprenticeships.
Faye Irving scooped the runner’s up spot at the West Yorkshire Apprenticeship Awards 2024 after she was nominated in the ‘Health and Public Service Apprentice of the Year’ category by her mentor, Practice Educator, Jessica Beattie.
Faye, 30, said:
Sadly I didn’t win but I did receive a highly commended award.
I am truly honoured to have been shortlisted but to me, I am just doing my job and doing what I love. I never thought I’d be nominated but I will continue to do my job as I love every aspect this opportunity is giving me.
A big thank you to Jessica who has been with me every step of the way of my nursing journey and my message to others thinking about entering the nursing profession is to keep going for your goals and always dream of what you can do … because you can.
Faye was inspired to become a trainee nursing associate after the death of her father Robert, in February 2022, just five months after he had been diagnosed with Motor Neurone Disease (MND).
She is combining her work at the BRI, which is part of Bradford Teaching Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust, with studying at University of Bradford.
Faye, who has Asperger’s and Specific Learning Difficulties (SpLDs), had previous experience of working in special schools across the district before she went into nursing, having graduated with a BA (Hons) Working with Young People and Families in 2016.
Jessica said:
Faye works in Paediatrics and is loved by the whole team. She is passionate, determined and hard working.
Faye has a huge heart and puts thought into everything she does. Her care towards her patients is excellent and the way she works in a team is so commendable.
Faye became a TNA Ambassador, which is a role created to help other TNAs and aspiring HCAs. She has taken this role and championed it. I am so proud of how she offers to help other struggling learners and shares her motivation to encourage others into the programme. Faye is an asset to the Trust and showcases the apprenticeship.
Jessica continued:
Faye has shared her disabilities to increase awareness and encourage others with additional needs to pursue their dream career as she has.
Each time I see Faye she lights up the room and brings so much value to her role.
I am delighted Faye has been recognised for her work and the wonderful person she is.
The awards ceremony was held in Cedar Court on May 9.