Living Our Values

Gemma Mitchell, Housekeeper, Denver Ward

Gemma is always smiling no matter how busy she is and nothing is ever too much trouble.

She is always welcoming to staff and patients and always goes that extra mile to make sure her patients are happy. She also makes sure the patients’ families are ok and always asks me how I am when I come on to the ward. She always has a listening ear if I need one. I love coming on to Denver ward when I know she is working as I know I will feel very welcome.

I am nominating her for this award so she knows how lovely she is and I want her know how her kindness radiates from her!

We have had a patient on our ward for some time now, it was the patient’s birthday today.

Gemma our housekeeper arranged an afternoon tea for our patient and gathered staff together to sing happy birthday. The patient was so surprised and very pleased.

This is just one fantastic example of how Gemma always goes above and beyond for our patients, staff and ward. Gemma is always kind, caring and supportive in all she does. A true reflection of our Team QEH values.

Gemma, overwhelmed with emotion was very grateful to receive her certificate and bag of goodies in recognition of her amazing achievement and said:
‘It means the world. I’m just speechless. I always make sure the patients are comfortable and happy, but this presentation is amazing. Thank you for the recognition.”

Nominees

Danny Southgate, Information Services, Junior BI Developer

Dr Stefan Havlik, Locum Consultant Elm Ward

Louise Boswell, Advanced NeoNatal Nurse Practitioner in NICU

Mairead Spratt, Staff Nurse in Arthur Levin Day Surgery

Rachel Russell, Audiology Administrator in Audiology

Sheridan Bell, Senior Healthcare Assistant on Rudham Ward

Wendy Wright, Junior Sister/Charge Nurse on Sandringham Ward

Zoe Carruthers, Macular Degeneration Service Co-ordinator in Ophthalmology

Nnamdi Obijuru, Physiotherapist (Rehabilitation Team)

Nnamdi has only been with our team for a short length of time, however he has made an outstanding contribution to our West Dereham Rehab Team.

Nnamdi is extremely knowledgeable and has an amazing way with the elderly patients. He engages at a level that they understand and is so patient, which is vital with our cognitively impaired patients. However, what really makes Nnamdi stand out from the rest, is his ability to act under pressure.

Recently Nnamdi through thorough assessments, has identified two patients who presented with neurological issues which where otherwise missed. The first one resulted in him identifying a spinal injury and he was completely calm, sprang into action to place the patient in spinal precautions to prevent any more damage. The second one resulted in him identifying a stoke and again calmly informed medical team and got patient moved to the stroke ward.

Both of these events showed his amazing knowledge and skills, whilst able to work under pressure in a calm manner. Nnamdi was commended by the medical team and congratulated for these interventions.

Nnamdi is also very approachable and always willing to share his knowledge with our team, help improve our training and understanding. We feel this shows his complete dedication of care to his patients and displays all 3 of the trust values every day. He is an amazing asset to our team and his infectious personality brightens up our day.

Nnamdi, who was overwhelmed and humbly grateful to receive this award, said: "This means so much to me. I will always do my best for my patients, colleagues and my hospital. I am so grateful to receive this award."

Nominess

Bryony Oughton, Ward Sister/Charge Nurse on Denver Ward

Catarina Rodrigues De Araujo, Healthcare Assistant on Necton Ward

Chloe Mendham, Senior Healthcare Assistant on Rudham Ward

Dr Sanjayan Anandanadarajah, Clinical Fellow in Gastroenterology

Emily Starling, Senior Therapy Assistant in Occupational Therapy

Georgina Melton, Junior Sister/Charge Nurse on Elm Ward

Helene Huggins, Domestic Supervisor in Domestic Services

Joanne Hughes – Midwife in Brancaster Obstetrics and Gynaecology

Jurate Gavene, Legal Services Support Officer in Complaints and Litigation

Kelly Waterfield, Patient Safety Manager in Risk Management

Kim Woodhouse, Nursing Associate in the Orthopaedic Clinic

Ruth Mendez-Moreno, Phlebotomist in Phlebotomy

Samantha Bambridge, Assistant Practitioner in Corporate Nursing

Sarah Stevens, Healthcare Assistant on Feltwell Ward

Vanessa Edgeley, Senior Dispensary Assistant in Pharmacy Services

Victoria Howell, Consultants in Anaesthetics

Nicola Wright and Claire Burrell - Play Specialists on Rudham Ward

‘My Daughter has had to attend Rudham Ward multiple times. Each time she has had to attend I feel personally that without The Play Specialists Claire Burrell and Nicola Wright the times we would have had to attend would have been unbearable and I as a parent simply do not think I could have managed without their support. Their support not only for my Daughter but for myself too. When your child has to have procedures it is not only traumatic for them when they are unaware at a young age but as a parent It can be very difficult too. They have always gone above and beyond, missing their breaks, taking late breaks, going over their working hours just so they could support not only my daughter but me to on the times we have been on Rudham Ward and I have witnessed personally them doing this for many other people too. They are the most compassionate, caring and empathetic people I have ever had the pleasure in meeting. We have had to attend on multiple occasions and on each occasion, they always have the most biggest smiles, caring nature and welcoming arms. My Daughter always talks about Claire and Nicola even when we are not at the hospital, she takes pleasure in letting people know how she named Babies 'Charlie and Harry' with you in the play area and that you still carry on the names whilst she's not there! Claire and Nicola you really have left a long lasting impact on my Daughter I do not even need to say her name as I am 99.9% sure you will know exactly who this is. You are complete God sends in my eyes, I could never put into words just how much I appreciate you both. QEH should be extremely blessed to have you as Staff Members.”

Nominees

Adriana Cunha, registered midwife

Alison Rae, clinical specialist

Annabelle Rowe, midwife

Cathy Piper, junior sister/charge nurse

Claire Stockmeier, office manager

Darren Woolford, housekeeper

Dr Harriet Nash, Care of the Elderly consultant

Elina Lizunova, physiotherapist

Ellie Jupe, healthcare assistant

Francesca (Frankie) Blackledge, student midwife

Jurate Gavene, legal services support officer

Karen Kidd, core team leader

Katheryn Yates, information analyst team leader

Katrina Petch, housekeeper

Kayleigh Jackson and Sally Grint, Healthcare Assistants

Lorna Berrington-Davies, family liaison officer

Lorraine Navarro, discharge planning assistant

Lucy Utting, Matron for Risk and Governance

Megan Gyles, healthcare assistant

Mervie Campbell, junior sister/charge nurse

Millie Wallen, senior healthcare assistant

Scott Rowbotham, specialist physiotherapist

Sue Taylor-Hunt, healthcare assistant

Suzanne Edwards, learning and organisational development facilitator

Victoria Tansy, sister

Wadzi Mateta, agency nurse

Nominees

Adriana Cunha, Registered Midwife in Midwifery

Andrea Bhogall, Clinical Nurse Educator in Corporate Nursing

Anifa Muanze Ferreira, Nursing Degree Apprentice on West Dereham Ward

Chloe McKenny, Healthcare Assistant on Feltwell Ward

Chrissie Hoare, Sonographer Manager

Dan Denniss, Lead Radiographer in the Radiology Department

Deborah Bellamy, HSA/Machine Operator in Domestics

Dr Danail Aleksandrov, Speciality Doctor in Urology

Dr John Gibson, Consultant in ITU Medical

Emma Baker, Junior Sister/Charge Nurse in the Palliative Care team

Emma Woodhouse, Sonographer Support Person

Ethan Waisberg, F1 Dr in Oncology

Helen Gregory, Information Analyst Team Leader in Information Services

Jane Clarke, Outpatient Receptionist

Janice Costick, Healthcare Assistant on Necton Ward

Kerry Harvey, Senior Therapy Assistant in the Rehabilitation Team

Lewis Wagner, Outpatient Receptionist

Lisa Gilding, Healthcare Assistant

Magdalena Szafranek, Healthcare Assistant in the Cancer Unit

Mervie Campbell, Junior Sister/Charge Nurse in Obstetrics and Gynaecology Clinic

Michelle Herring, Senior Healthcare Assistant in Main Out-Patients Department

Paul Brandon, Anaesthetist

Sadie Gent, Ward Co-ordinator on Necton Ward

Sandra Pickwell, Learning and Organisational Development Business Partner in Staff Development

Shannon Tuck, Healthcare Assistant

Sharon Cotton, Head and neck cancer specialist nurse in Main Out-Patients Department

Sigita Pekoriene, HSA/Machine Operator in Domestic Services

Sophie Carter, Nursing Degree Apprentice on Rudham Ward

Sr Sheeja Sabu, Staff Nurse in NICU

Suzanne Marsters, Healthcare Assistant on Feltwell and Castleacre wards

Teresa Turner, Healthcare Assistant on Stanhoe Ward

Victoria Tansley, Staff Nurse in the Emergency Department

Chidera Awokeh, Staff Nurse - Day Treatment Unit

"Chidera was on duty when I visited my relative on Acute Medical Unit. I was so impressed with her professionalism and attitude; she was kind and fair to every one of her patients.

"I heard one upset patient being incredibly unpleasant towards her including making personal remarks, shouting and swearing. Despite this she carried on with the same kind demeanour towards this patient even while they were being so unkind and insulting.

"The patience and care she gave was honestly amazing and she demonstrated our values throughout the time I was on the ward.

Well done and thank you for all you do for our patients

Nominees

Amy Haslam - Specialist Physiotherapist

Andreia Pinto - Healthcare Assistant

Bethany Stone - Executive Assistant

Deepa James - Staff Nurse

Frances (Fran) Morgan - Senior Healthcare Assistant

Hannah Kendle - Clinical Co-ordinator

Karon Strong - Head of Nursing - Medicine

Kelly Wilson - GROW Facilitator

Kimberley Ely - Domestics Supervisor

Lisa Moore - Deputy Catering Manager

Martin Peel - Lead Orthotist

Mia-Rose Howard - Corporate Receptionist

Mollie Frary - Junior Sister

Nicola Hanks - Healthcare Assistant

Sarah Allen - Healthcare Assistant

Stephen Butland - Digital Senior Support Officer

Teresa Halse - Payroll Officer

Toyah (Victoria) Greenall - GROW Facilitator

Elizabeth Russell, Staff Nurse, Same Day Emergency Care (SDEC)

‘Elizabeth was on shift when my father was admitted with chest pains. He then had a heart attack while in Same Day Emergency Care and was suffering for two hours before his event ended and he was transferred to Papworth via Ambulance.

‘Elizabeth was by my father’s side throughout and kept him calm, charged his phone ahead of his journey and kept myself and my mother updated. We couldn't have been more grateful of Elizabeth's honesty, integrity and how she cared for my Father over those two hours.

‘After having to return to the QEH for another event, my Father visited Elizabeth at the Same Day Emergency Care department to thank her, and they both burst into tears.

‘People like Elizabeth are few and far between, and it is all too easy to put pen to paper to make a complaint, but I firmly believe she should be recognised for her professionalism, and how well she represented the QEH."

Nominees

Alice Mann, Assistant/Associate Practitioner, Pathology

Alvin Anida, Deputy Charge Nurse, Emergency Department

Belinda Smith, Healthcare Assistant, Acute Medical Unit (AMU)

Dr Mohammed Imran, Locum Consultant General Medicine, Stanhoe Ward

Dr Olubusola Omotosho, Specialty Doctor, Ophthalmology

Ella Tuckwood, Student Midwife

Eric Jacinto, Staff Nurse, West Newton Ward

Graeme Cooper, Lead Pharmacist

Joe Greeves, Digital Desktop Support Technician, The Digital Team

Katie Athanasiou, Receptionist, Emergency Department

Mandie Powell, Housekeeper, Elm Ward

Mrs Ileana Geogloman, Consultants, General Surgery

Ryley Wilson, Paediatric Nursing Student, Neonatal Intensive Care Unit (NICU)

Shaun Hayden, Porter/Security Officer

Sheena Johnson-Banks, Medico Legal Lawyer and Head of Legal Services, Legal Services

Victoria Obey, Deputy Legal Services Manager, Legal Services

Wayne Fysh, Senior Multimedia Designer, Communications, Engagement and Fundraising Team

Wah Kai Huy, Porter/security

‘Kai from the security team supported a young person who attended the QE due to physical health but also struggles with mental health along with having diagnosis of autism.

‘This young person had a bad experience last time due to being restrained. Kai came out to support the patient he was so kind empathic and shows so much compassion and adjustment to the young person’s autism. This is something we don’t see very often but he took his time speaking to the patient to avoid a more severe escalation he spoke in a way that the patient would understand offering a lot of reassurance to not only the young person but the parent too.

‘Amazing work Kai, thank you so much for advocating and supporting this young person in a distressing situation.

Nominees

Angi Dymond, Healthcare Assistant A and E

Anthony Hales, Head of Digital Infrastructure

Astra Kassiram, Phlebotomist

Ceferino (Sev) Parcon, Staff Nurse, Oxborough Ward

Colleen Cartwright, Workforce Resourcing Co-ordinator

Dani Rowledge, Healthcare Assistant, Marham Ward

Davina (Dee) Barker, Patient Experience Administrator

Dr Mujahid Elhaj, Specialty Registrar

Dr Rudolf Zach, Consultant, General Surgery

Edward Kirimo, Healthcare Assistant, Denver Ward

Grace Blamire, Healthcare Assistant, Elm Ward

Helen Tweed, Senior Healthcare Assistant, Elm Ward

Joanna (Jo) Bean, Healthcare Assistant, Gayton Ward

Katherine (Kathy) Louro, HSA/Machine Operator, Domestic Services

Kezia Savage, Preceptor Midwife

Kwame Bonah, Staff Nurse, Acute Medical Unit

Marie Elden, Healthcare Assistant, Rudham Ward

Melissa Howell, Healthcare Assistant, West Newton Ward

Nanagucchi (Abdul Malik Adam), Staff Nurse, A and E

Paula Jones, Support Manager, Women's and Children's

Rolanda Grajauskiene, Healthcare Assistant, Marham Ward

Rose-Ann Luker, Healthcare Assistant, A and E

Sally Diesto, Junior Sister, Oxborough Ward

Sarah Jackson, Senior Healthcare Assistant, Denver Ward

Sarah Jackson, Senior Healthcare Support Worker, Denver Ward

Sarah Jordan, Senior Diabetic Specialist Nurse

Skylar, Healthcare Assistant, West Newton Ward

Val Fisher, Healthcare Assistant, Sandringham Unit

Clara Simao, Ward Manager

‘Clara is an amazing nurse and manager who always goes above and beyond but I would like to outline a specific example of when her kindness and compassion shone through.

‘There was a recent patient on Elm ward who was Portuguese and found speaking English very challenging. Clara spent a lot of time with the patient speaking in Portuguese to assist in his care delivery and nutritional intake. Her interactions made a huge difference to the patient and helped them to not feel isolated on the ward.

‘The patient was there for a long period of time and sadly they were put on the end-of-life pathway. Clara again went above and beyond and contacted the patient’s son in Portugal and talked him through the current situation and tried to assist in deciding when the right time to come and visit would be. This led to him arriving in the country in time to be with his father when he died. Clara was also here when he came and spent time with them both supporting with communication and providing the care he required. The family expressed their huge gratitude for her kindness.

‘Clara's actions made an immense difference to this patient and his family and made a very difficult time for them all easier to come to terms with. It was also at a time where Clara had recent personal challenges which for some would have made the actions she took impossible but she showed amazing strength and courage and still gave this family the best experience possible. I am very proud to work with Clara and to have witnessed such amazing care.”

Nominees

Alison Melton, Senior Support Manager - Women and Children

Bhawna Sharma, Junior Sister – Sandringham

Caroline Cuffe, Radiology Support Worker

Dominic Barrett, Resourcing Business Partner

Elizabeth Russell, Staff Nurse - Same Day Emergency Care

Josie Baldry, Project Manager - New Hospital

Lauren Sampson, Trainee Nursing Associate - Necton ward

Natalie King, Senior Therapy Assistant

Neville Brooks, ICT Service Delivery Manager

Nicola Staff, Paediatric Pre- Assessment Nurse- Roxburgh Centre

Paul Blaber, Porter

Poppy Burrell-Panks, A&E Receptionist

Regina Honan, Healthcare Assistant - West Newton Ward

Shane Singleterry, Healthcare Assistant - Central Bank

Sharon Smith, Housekeeper - Marham Ward

Svetlana Venckiene, HSA/Machine Operator - Domestic Services

Gemma Buckley, Clinical Co-ordinator, Leverington Ward

Gemma is very passionate about her patients and has their best interest at all times. Her recent act of professionalism whilst supporting an elderly lady on Leverington ward, who was experiencing domestic abuse was exceptional and passionate. Gemma went above and beyond to support and ensure this lady had a safe discharge and place to live. Despite the red tapes, Gemma persevered to support this lady through external agencies. Well done.

Nominees

• Amsajini Ravinthiranathan, Internal Medicine Training – Endocrinology
• Cheryl Bedford, Specialist Radiographer
• Cyril Simora Palma, Charge Nurse - Infection Prevention & Control
• Dayanand Peeraji, Charge Nurse - A & E Department
• Emily Holmes, Clinical Nurse Educator - Specialist Midwife
• Karen Brandon, Assistant Practitioner - A&E
• Megan Gyles, Healthcare Assistant - West Dereham Ward
• Morgan Wilkin, Healthcare Assistant - Acute Medical Unit
• Neville Brooks, ICT Service Delivery Manager
• Olawale Faleye, Specialist Physiotherapist
• Peace Adegbile, Staff Nurse - ITU
• Rita Wood, Healthcare Assistant - Sandringham Unit
• Sarah Frost, Service Manager - Cardio-Respiratory
• Tincy Jose, Junior Sister - Acute Medical Unit
• Uche Mbonu, Staff Nurse - ITU
• Vanya Savkova, Specialty Doctor - Cardiology
• Victoria Hollywood, Senior Operating Department Practitioner - Theatres

Kate Stacey, Sister in A&E

"I am honoured to nominate Kate Stacey for their outstanding contribution to patient care and support of students in the A&E department. During my time as a student nurse, I had the privilege of working closely with Kate and her guidance and professionalism left a lasting impression on me!

"From day one, Kate was welcoming and approachable, always taking the time to explain complex procedures and ensuring I felt confident in my learning. Kate’s clinical skills are exceptional, whether it was managing a challenging situation or offering a reassurance during a tough shift which shows her compassion and dedication to both patients and colleagues!

"Kate really does go above and beyond for her patients ensuring they receive the best care, this meant lots of communicating with doctors & other members of the multi-disciplinary team to ensure the correct treatment plan was in place for the best outcome to the patient!

"Kate positively encouraged questions and providing constructive feedback that helped me grow in both knowledge and confidence during my placement. She has fantastic leadership, patience, and ability to work under pressure make them not only a great nurse but also an incredible role model.

"I am deeply grateful for the support and mentorship from Kate, and I know she will continue to make a significant impact on everyone she works with. Kate is truly deserving of recognition for her commitment to excellence in patient care and the development of future nurses!"

Amelia Turner, Senior Occupational Therapist

Amelia is a wonderful person and a fantastic Occupational Therapist. She lives the values of the Trust each and every day purely due to her friendly, supportive personality and attitude to her work and profession. Although Amelia shows this day-in, day-out, she has just recently gone even further above and beyond to support a young adult through a very difficult admission. The patient has finally been discharged to an appropriate place, and this is in no small part down to Amelia's hard work, attention to detail and never-give-up attitude in succeeding in what she knows is the right outcome for the patient's needs. The patient had suffered a brain injury and has mental health difficulties which meant he needed special cognitive input and assessment. Despite not being able to get engagement from other appropriate services in the treatment and assessment of this patient, Amelia worked closely with our Clinical Psychology colleagues to work with him and get him discharged to an appropriate environment. This included daily check-ins with the patient, creating an orientation board for his room, regularly liaising with his family about his progress, taking him out for functional task practice to assess his cognitive ability out in public and his safety awareness, and accompanying him out so he can have a cigarette safely; keeping him calm and engaged about needing to remain in hospital. Amelia also advised staff as to the patient's unique needs and tried to engage his 1:1 staffing as to what they can do to support him and help him recover. The discharge process was long and fragmented, but Amelia fought through recurrent barriers which led to numerous phone calls, emails, reports (including the need to fight for other services to complete imperative reports) and referrals, in order to get to this positive outcome. I firmly believe that this patient would have become stranded in the hospital or discharged to an inappropriate place had it not been for Amelia's hard work and determination to give wholly holistic care to him at his time of need, and she deserves every recognition for this.

Emma Bensley - Senior Health Care Assistant

On what the most heartbreaking and devastating day of our lives in losing our precious daughter, Emma was not only there caring for her one last time, Emma was there for us as a family. Our daughter had been cared by Emma and the fantastic Rudham Children's Ward for many years, but as she left us to her journey over the rainbow, Emma cared for her with such care and love and supported us a family in ways that will stay with us forever. Emma stayed with our daughter until we were able to take over as protective parents and treat her as the special little girl she was to us. Emma is a unique individual and is part of a wonderful team on Rudham at the QEH. The whole team on Rudham was there for us as a family that heartbreaking day like they had been many times, Emma's thoughtful actions went the extra mile and will forever stay in our hearts.

Winner - Kelly Cloudsley - MDT Coordinator

Kelly is an Cancer Services MDT co-ordinater. Her Role is a pivotal part of the Cancer Pathway for patients. For the last 3 months, our Team has found ourselves without a Co-ordinater due to staff vacancies. Despite already covering 2 other Cancer Sites, Kelly kindly agreed to Cover our Cancer Site also. Each Cancer site works slightly different with regards to the pathway, Kelly didn't previously know our pathway, however that did not stop her! She has adapted to our ways of working, has gone above and beyond on numerous occasions, and quite frequently worked outside of her comfort zone to support our team and our patients. Kelly has done all of this on top of her own ever growing workload. She has been an excellent support to the Nursing Team, and I feel her hard work and commitment should be recognised.

Shan Sebastian - Healthcare Assistant

‘I recently had a stay in the QEH on Gayton Ward. I was lucky enough to be in a side room. Although in a bay I’m sure I would have been treated exactly the same. As I lay in my bed, I could hear someone talking to a patient, I was listening to the care and attention that this lady was given as the HCA waged and cleaned her. They were kind, considerate and constantly aware of the patient and checking all was ok with her constantly. They made small talk as they was dressing the patient in her clean pyjamas, telling how lovely and soft they were and how stretchy to make it easier to get them on and off. They asked the patient if she was ok - did she want Shan to stop. Constantly checking they were ok. Shan is a valuable member of the team, always cheerful never moaned and offered help to all staff and patients. Nothing was too much trouble. Shan was always consistent and should be what other staff should be based on. Such a lovely person - a member of staff to be proud of.”

Colleen Roper - Healthcare Assistant

Recently Colleen was recognised from the specialist palliative team in regard to her attentiveness and caring nature for a patient who was nearing the end of their life. Colleen stayed with the patient in his final moments. "I saw the patient yesterday morning prior to his passing and he looked beautiful. A HCA was sitting with him, he had been washed and tidied up, laying settled on the matress, and accepted mouthcare. I was thinking about how fanctastic this HCA had been and feel they need recognition for doing the right thing depsite certain challenges in recent weeks' I feel Colleen deserves a 'prize nomination' for her outstanding care."

Rosie Johnson - Staff Nurse

Rosie is a junior nurse working in the stroke unit. Recently she cared for a young patient who suffered a stroke. During this time he experienced anxiety around what was happening, initially having very minimal communication due to his expressive dsyphasia. Rosie spent long periods ensuring that this man, was given the time to get across his needs and allowed him to express his worries so that she could address them appropriately. Both the patient and wife were hugely grateful for the care and compassion she showed during his short hospital stay. The man felt most at ease when he knew Rosie was on shift, as felt at times that he was being rushed or staff would stop engaging with him due to his speech problem.

Sophie Golsby - Assistant Human Resources Business Partner

Unfortunately, we’ve recently had a significant amount of sickness within our team, which resulted in the team being really short staffed over one of the busiest periods for us. Sophie offered her assistance in coming down to the office during lunchtime to allow us all to have a break and time away from our desks. Sophie was on hand to greet visitors and answer the phone for us, which really made a difference to our day. It was so lovely that we were able to stop working and have time away, and that someone was willing to give up their time to make sure that we were looking after ourselves. Sophie is a really kind and selfless person, and this proves it!

Carrieanne Davies - Recruitment Project Manager

During a recent bout of Covid within the office, over half of the Recruitment team were off sick, with some of the team able to work from home. Carrieanne was one of the three members of the Recruitment team in the office and she stepped up and coordinated various areas of work in others absence. The team are in the midst of one of the busiest times of the year, but Carrieanne displayed exemplary behaviours in keeping calm, checking in on colleagues, coordinating the workload and juggling her work as well as others, all whilst helping to cover the queries from various visitors to the office and telephone calls. Carrieanne is a shining example of a genuinely caring colleague who exuberated kindness during that time.

Linda Carroll - Senior Therapy Assistant

Linda Carroll, aka Lovely Lady Linda, is one of the therapy assistants working within the Stroke Team. The patient will always come first, and Linda is always willing to help, even if it isn’t within her specific role. She is kind, caring and compassionate, the patients love her! Linda runs a relaxation group for the patients down on West Raynham, which has gone down a treat, with many patients finding it very useful to find a distraction amongst the loud ward, as well as helping them come to terms with the potentially life changing diagnosis of a stroke. Linda has recently received a glowing plaudit from a relative, who initially was not quite taken by relaxation. The relatives mother had a stroke, and attended the relaxation class whilst with us as an inpatient. When asked where she went during her relaxation period she described walking lane with her dad, and how this made her feel safe and in a very happy place. Unfortunately this patient came back into hospital shortly after discharge, and was made end of life. The daughter of the patient used this image to talk to her mother in her last days to make sure that she was in her happy place. The daughter felt that because of Linda’s relaxation classes, she was able to take these skills and give her mother her happy place in those last days. Linda is too humble to say anything but these classes that she runs means so much to the patients, and there is no one better to run them. Linda is an amazing example of someone who is living our values, showing kindness and promoting wellness in every part of her job.

Jack Ivany - Specialist Physiotherapist and Zoe Nicholls - Senior Occupational Therapist

Jack and Zoe went above and beyond what we would feel is normal practice to support one of their patients from Shouldham Ward. They co-ordinated a visit to a Harvest Festival celebration in a church on the North Norfolk Coast for a young mother who had been identified as receiving end of life care and who was not medically stable to allow a discharge from hospital. The patient was able to see her small child in the Harvest Celebration, a time out of hospital shared with her extended family, making such a difference to a family and the wider community. Both Zoe and Jack liaised with multiple agencies, pulling everyone together for the patients benefit, thinking about every eventuality and coming up with solutions. This visit was not without risk which both staff members took very seriously, aware that this visit was going to take place among the inevitable organised chaos of a primary school event. They remained calm and considered, thinking about solutions as if they were enabling a friend to undertake the visit and at all times showing high levels of professionalism during what would have been a very emotional situation. Their dedication and values have enabled this patient and their family precious memories and without them as individuals this opportunity would have been missed, for that we as a service are very thankful. And finally this visit happened to fall on Jacks non-working day and without a moment's hesitation he changed plans, both in and out of work to facilitate this for the patient and her family. As a service we would like Jack and Zoe to know how thankful we are to have them within our service, the level of dedication and commitment to their patients and colleagues is exemplary.

These two individuals have organised and successfully fulfilled a Patients dying wish to see her young daughter at her school harvest festival. These inspirational individuals have undertaken a mammoth task of organising and conducting risk assessments to safely facilitate this amazing wish. Jack and Zoe have spent a long week sorting resources and organising transport and giving up their own time out of work to come in. To be able to take this responsibility and emotional journey on needs to be recognised and noted. Not only has this enabled a mother to watch one of her daughters milestones, which others can take for granted. Well done guys and we are all very proud of you!

Dr Rajah Nata, Senior Cardiology Specialist

Dr Rajah Nata has been the life and soul of our department. He has been available at any time of day and has effectively single handily run the cardiology service over the last 20+ years without any major incidents. His phone is always on and answered any time of day and to his detriment it is shorter to call and ask him for advice than to looking things up online as his medical knowledge is seemingly endless. Most of my peers (including myself) have at some stage been trained, supervised and guided by him. He is the only doctor in this trust that is universally liked.

Dr Nata patients hold him in high regard. A particularly illustrative example is a patient who is longest surviving cardiac amyloidosis survivor in the world who still comes to see him for his yearly follow-up from abroad. As a result Dr Nata has in the past received an award from the Lynn News but sadly so far not from us so far. His commitment to his patients, his colleagues and the trust is beyond question.

Dr Nata has been nominated for these awards previously, but sadly has never won.

Claire Wright, Assistant Practitioner in the Rehabilitation team

Although I have not worked with Claire for very long, I have had the privilege of watching her in action when working together on weekend shifts and when she has worked additional bank shifts within the acute medical therapy team to support with low staffing. Claire is incredibly passionate about her work and strives to ensure the best quality care for each patient on her caseload - according to their individual needs. She recently (and very excitedly) shared about a therapy session with me that absolutely warmed my Occupational Therapist's heart! Claire and the Elderly Therapy Team have been treating a patient on one of their wards who suffered from a brain injury. As part of his ongoing therapy input, Claire has been accompanying this patient to the upper limb group classes that are run on the Stroke Ward.

‘As part of this group intervention, all patients were scheduled to make their own mince pies as part of a Christmas-themed session - and Claire had planned to take her patient to the Stroke Unit for this session. Due to some confusion related to timing, the patient missed the start of the session and it was too late for him to join in. He was disappointed and had been so looking forward to making his mince pies and surprising his wife with what he had achieved. Claire sprung into action and managed to get all of the necessary components from the Stroke Therapy team in order to be able to facilitate the session with her patient in the therapy ADL kitchen. She took photos of the process (with consent from the patient) so that she could show his wife his level of engagement and each step that he was able to complete independently. Claire ate her lunch in the ADL kitchen while waiting for the mince pies to bake following completion of the activity. When sharing the story with me, I could hear the joy in her voice at witnessing the reaction of the patient and his wife as he presented the mince pie that he had made for her - with supporting evidence from the photos and short video clips to demonstrate how much of the task he was able to achieve on his own as a result of his hard work in therapy to date. The patients wife will be freezing one of the mince pies for him to enjoy once he is able to eat solid foods again.

‘I believe that this story demonstrates all 3 Trust values. Fairness and equity in treatment by ensuring that the patient was able to partake in the promised activity despite being late for the group session. Claire recognised the importance to the patient's well-being of completing this activity as he had been looking forward to and preparing for it. Kindness demonstrated throughout Claire's interactions with the patient and his wife. Well done Claire for the fantastic work that you do as an assistant practitioner in the Elderly Therapy Team - and this particularly heart-warming display of therapeutic intervention.”

Bob Marsden, Volunteer

While recently volunteering on the Front Desk, Bob helped a visitor who came in for some help where they had a breathing machine which had stopped working. Bob offered to help with the concerns about the breathing machine acting with the Trust values in mind, listening to the concerns first and then acting to resolve the issue presented and the care he provided to the visitors in a calm friendly kind manner.

Bob offered to help by talking to a colleague from Royal Papworth Hospital who knew how to restart this type of machine. Bob offered to use his own mobile phone to do this so as not to block the main phone on reception, and followed the instructions provided to help fix the machine. As a volunteer, Bob always demonstrates the Trusts values listen, act and care.

Jessica Rump, Radiographer

Jessica started with Team QEH Radiology in August 2021 having done her training elsewhere. She has quietly gone about her initial preceptee period with professionalism and diligence and has shown encouraging clinical skills and patient care in this short space of time. Her work ethic, teamworking and personable attitude is appreciated by her colleagues. Around the Christmas and new year period there were numerous out of hours gaps that were left uncovered. Jessica was willing to cover several of these at short notice despite them being disruptive to her downtime. This enabled the service to continue as normal and is a further example of her willingness to integrate herself as a valued member of our team. I have no hesitation in nominating Jessica for this recognition as she has already shown the values and behaviours that exemplify the QEH.

Carina Fernandes Martinho, ED Nurse

Carina's practice embodies the Trusts values. She is a clinically very competent nurse who is an excellent teacher and role model to others, she provides excellent care to her patients ensuring where appropriate that their families are kept up to date. She gives 100% to her patients and expects others to do the same. She is happy to challenge poor behaviour and practice (she is able to professionally challenge as she has the underpinning knowledge to communicate her concerns.

She takes pride in ensuring that her knowledge is broad and always up to date, she reads and is always wanting to learn). If she is not in a position to challenge she escalates and will not walk past something that she does not believe to be acceptable. She is a strong advocate for excellent basic care and safe handover, she will escalate anything less than gold standard.

Recently as the nurse in charge with staffing challenges it has been a difficult to be in all areas monitoring these standards at all times however Carina's eyes and ears are always open and I can trust her to ensure the correct standards are met in her area and the areas around her.

Louisa Smither, Clinical Physiologist

Since September 2021 as a department we have had to cope with a minimum of technical staff. Normally, Louisa (a trainee) would be working alongside two other experienced technicians, but over the past 6 months she has had to manage as a single-handed technician due to unforeseen circumstances.

Louisa successfully managed to rise to the challenge and has helped to steer the department in the right direction whilst also maintaining her educational requirements. I think this is exceptional for a trainee to achieve this and to adapt to a difficult situation without complaint, and it is for this reason I would like to nominate Louisa for an award. I am happy to discuss in more detail if needs be. Many thanks.

Sue Wright, HIS Team training officer

e many wards and departments over the past few months, our team was impacted by long term and short-term sickness absence. Overnight, Sue had to become a one-man band, ensuring that staff nominated for their patient information computer training were booked, trained, and issued with the appropriate access, so they could do their job.

She absolutely stepped up to the challenge. To minimise disruption and delays for staff, she worked tirelessly, without complaint and always with a smile on her face, to get the staff through their training. It would have been easy for her to cut corners and let standards slip, but that is not Sue. She continued to deliver training to the same high standard, and would explain to you, it is extremely important that all delegates get the same experience and quality of service.

On top of this she offered support to her sick colleague, keeping in touch, and visiting to make sure she was on the road to recovery. The many positive comments from staff about their training clearly support what I know about Sue too - ‘Sue was absolutely fab and answered all my questions”, ‘Sue was brilliant, friendly and professional, with time for questions and a pace that suited me”, ‘Sue had a good knowledge of our requirements and even a novice would be able to leave with confidence”. Sue would in fact tell you, she has simply been doing her job during a challenging period for everyone, but I know she has done it amazingly well and beyond. She deserves to be recognised for the effort she has put in. Thank you for considering her.

Charlotte Angus, Trainee Nursing Associate

Charlotte was looking after an elderly patient on the ward. She was made aware that the patients family needed to share with the patient, over the phone, some bad news about the patients son who was in another hospital. Charlotte listened to the family insight about her religious beliefs and arranged for the chaplain to be with the patient whilst the news was broken over the phone. Charlotte liaised with the Chaplain and the family to arrange a suitable time and co-ordinated the call and remained present to offer any further support should it be needed.

Ross Stewart, Communications Assistant

‘No matter what he is faced with, he provides a smile and a willing can-do attitude. He goes out of his way to help other members of the team when they need it most. Whether that's providing support or just giving someone an encouraging word when they are feeling down, Ross is always there for others.

‘Ross' work ethic and positive attitude make him an asset to our team.”

Paulo Belo, Charge Nurse

Feedback from the Medical Examiner: I spoke with the wife, and one of the sons, of the above gentleman today about the care he received during his admission. They said they received loving care from everyone they met in the hospital and, as a family, were so grateful. They also wanted to express their truly heartfelt thanks to you specifically Paulo. I was initially speaking to one of the sons, but the patient's wife then wanted to speak to me herself to let me know how grateful she was to you and how much she thought of the care you gave them. She said "Paulo was absolutely outstanding in the care he gave us, I/we will never be able to thank him enough. He held my hand whilst my husband was dying and put his arm around me. He made such a terrible situation almost bearable for me. Please find him for me and let him know what I've said." I promised I would do that of course, it was a very emotional telephone call as she and her son both felt so strongly about the care you gave them all. Thank you for everything you did for them all.

Jo Hayes, Clinical Medical Examiner Officer

Good afternoon Ms Shaw, I have been meaning to send this for a long time and have just been reminded to do so thanks to another full day of Death registrations at your hospital. I know you are stepping down, but before you leave, would you have time to nominate for an award, a certain Joanne Hayes of the Medical Examiners’ Office, for the absolutely wonderful job she does ensuring that the MCCD paperwork we receive in the Registration Service is immaculate at all times, with doctors names printed clearly, all information filled in and if a cause of death is to be queried, she makes a note of it for future reference to pass along to her doctors. Her quality of work is supreme. Whenever I phone her, which is invariably at the end of the day for the next day’s appointment, with a query (and the times I have had to call are so few and far between, it’s a miracle), she has always stayed late, way past when she should and never takes time for lunch as there is always someone popping in her office. Jo is always ready to help and despite an incredibly busy and pressurised job, has a sense of humour and graciousness and goes out of her way to support us, while not suffering fools either. I just wish there was some reward we could offer from the registration service ourselves, as she saves us hours each week, and that is not an exaggeration, thinking about the problem paperwork we get from other sources. I cannot praise her highly enough.

Sam Cook, Associate Practitioner ENT Lead

Sam works in the ENT department. She is kind and always friendly. My son has really struggled coming into the ENT clinic and has been seeing a clinical psychologist. Sam came in on her day off to meet with me my son and the psychologist to help ease charlies stress and anxiety. It's been a really difficult journey for my son since being diagnosed with his ear condition but whenever we come to the clinic, she will help ease his anxiety and now he will look for her. Its nice to see someone go the extra mile and help. Charlie really felt going to the clinic room with her helpful he saw that the equipment isn't that scary.

Phulmattie Mohan, Matron

It is challenging to identify which of our values to select for Matron Mohan. I believe that Mohan is a credible role model and at every opportunity both champions and embeds Kindness, Wellness and Fairness. We all have our roles and objectives however what I experienced and observed demonstrated going way above and beyond expectations every day. She was able to observe and acknowledge my struggles and did not walk by but take time out of her manic day to sit, actively listen, support and be kind to understand and appreciate the challenges I was having. Mohan had the desire to support me whilst remaining positive and compassionate and was exceptional in her support and provided me her time when I really needed it and where others ignored my requests. Following this Mohan encountered an individual who was angry and unsettled and her ability to adapt so professionally to care, listen and actively through effective communication establish and both calm and rectify the issue with ease. I frequently witness true championing of exceptional individualised care to both colleagues and patients appropriately challenging whilst coaching, to ensure the best for our patients and this Trust. Mohan will always think of others over herself and leads by example and nothing is ever too much trouble, she remains positive and is a breath of fresh air/ray of sunshine when entering the ward environment. Mohan is well respected by teams and ensures well being of others whilst supporting change and compassionate high quality care journeys.

Deja John, Healthcare Assistant

I would like to nominate a A&E Healthcare Assistant, Deja John, who I witnessed providing great care whilst I was in A&E. Deja gave the most outstanding, exemplary, respectfully appropriate care to an injured non verbal adult patient who had learning difficulty who I'm sure was frightened, as well as his very elderly parents. Deja was so attentive but not overly so, and demonstrated so many great skills. Her level of communication to both patient and parents was absolutely perfect. Deja was so calm, polite, friendly, caring and reassuring and never once condescending, always checking that they understood and communicating gentle offers of reassurance that can sometimes be forgotten. Nothing was too much trouble. Deja offered to take the patient to x-ray as a familiar face for the patient and make this process easier. On their return Deja praised the patient for doing so well and communicated this to the patients parents, which was both reassuring for them, and simply a nice thing to do. Deja's level of care demonstrated kindness and consideration for everyone's wellness and not just the patient. Witnessing Deja's interaction with both patient and family was inspiring and I was very proud to witness this. Great job. Deja you are in my opinion an asset to our Trust.