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Karen Fidgett, Patient Environment Lead at Midlands Partnership NHS Foundation Trust has been named a winner in the Community Award category of the Staffordshire Dignity in Care Awards.

The awards, which took place at Newcastle and Stafford College Performing Arts Centre last week recognise those whose work makes a real difference to others.

Karen has been recognised for providing a voice for those who find it difficult to speak for themselves and being a real advocate for people who use the Trust’s services.

She was initially seconded for two weeks to review the ward environment at St George’s Hospital in Stafford but she made such a success of this that the position has been made permanent and extended to all the Trust’s inpatient and community venues. 

Karen has made a real difference to people using our services.  Our patients and staff have truly benefited from her boundless energy, her compassion, her kindness and her unswerving commitment to getting it absolutely right for service users - down to the very last detail.

Jane Landick, Company Secretary at MPFT said “Coming into hospital can be distressing and reduce people’s feelings of independence and control.  Karen recognises this and also sees that small changes can make a big difference. Amongst the many changes Karen has overseen, many at no or low cost, are repositioning furniture to create seating areas for different activities; dementia friendly signage and clocks; toys for visiting children; artwork, gardens……the list goes on.  We are delighted that Karen has been recognised for her care and compassion and for the real commitment she shows to putting people at the heart of what we do”.