Both HCSWs were nominated for the award by their colleague, Chatterley Ward Deputy Manager Denise Ibbs, who said: "Sharon Deakin adds a great deal of value to our patients experience every day through her commitment to person centred care. She is very compassionate and spends a lot of time with patients to really understand their needs and preferences, ensuring that our team is in the best position to meet those needs.
“Sharon has an interest in nutrition and hydration for older adults and takes time to ensure that dietary needs are met by highlighting dislikes and likes to make sure that individual patient needs are catered for.
“She gets to know patient’s hobbies and what activities they enjoy to help meet their rehabilitation goals. Sharon often goes the extra mile and has spent her own time buying newspapers and other items to help to occupy patients that have no relatives or friends to visit them. Her example to others ensures that learning is shared widely across the team so that we are best placed to deliver high quality, compassionate and individualised care."
Denise added: “Sharon Williams demonstrates real empathy, kindness and an understanding of the needs of others. Frequently going above and beyond the expectations of her role, she provides guidance, support and leadership to her colleagues, teaching and supporting new members of the team.
“Sharon shows immense consideration in her interactions with palliative care patients and in the support she provides to relatives when their loved ones are sadly nearing the end of their life. She can be relied upon to maintain high standards and to promote high standards amongst others. She leads by example, is an excellent communicator and seeks to motivate others to achieve. She builds strong and positive relationships with all members of the wider multi-disciplinary team and provides support for student nurses within the team.
“Sharon truly lives the NHS values every day. Her care and compassion are unwavering and her commitment to improving the patient and carer experience in the final hours of life is exemplary.”
Liz commented: “Our HCSW colleagues are integral to our workforce and are often found at the heart of our clinical teams. They make a real difference every day to the lives of the patients they care for and the nursing colleagues they support.
“This recognition is very well deserved, and I offer my congratulations to Sharon and Sharon. It is clear to see that both members of staff truly live MPFT and NHS values and behaviours, having a huge, positive impact on our patients, their relatives and carers, and our staff. Well done.”
Pictured, left to right, are Liz Lockett, MPFT Chief Nurse and Director of Quality & Professional Leadership, HCSW Sharon Williams, and HCSW Sharon Deakin.