Shropshire Nursing Boss: Awards deserved for staff who go above and beyond

It was good to recognise colleagues who go above and beyond at this year’s Trust celebratory awards.

The spotlight was put on the amazing achievements of my colleagues and I enjoyed meeting the finalists and winners from the 15 categories at the awards ceremony.

One of the categories was the Shropshire Star Public Recognition Award and I would like to thank the hundreds of Star readers who took the time to nominate and vote.

The winner was Janice Llewellyn, a Children’s Oncology and Haematology Nurse, whose nominator had described her as a massive support to their family.

The nomination said: “We couldn't have got through all the years of stress and panic without her. She has a great sense of humour, lots of banter which helps keep things normal. She is so passionate about her specialty and without her the unit wouldn't be the same.”

I also had the pleasure of presenting the Lifetime Achievement Award, which is given to a caring and dedicated colleague who has dedicated many years to the NHS. They make a real difference to the service that they are part of and always put patients, our community and colleagues at the heart of their approach. 

The winner was Karen Jones who has been working for the NHS for over 45 years. She was only 19 years old when she first started as a cleanliness technician. 

Karen is passionate about her work and very caring. For over 30 years, she has been in the Wrekin Midwife-led Unit, keeping the unit spick and span and looking after the team members. She always makes sure everybody is okay and checks whether she can help with anything.

Well done to Janice and Karen, both worthy winners! The winners and finalists – both individuals and teams – all sum up the huge impact my colleagues have on our patients, their families, visitors and their own colleagues.

This week we have had a real cold snap with most areas having seen snow – we need to do all we can to help those in our communities. Please check in on family and neighbours who might need a little help around this time.

We together with our health partners are always looking at ways to reduce the strain on our busy emergency departments, leaving them available for genuine emergencies.

The Think Which Service Campaign has been relaunched and we are encouraging everyone to consider self-care, their local pharmacy, or calling NHS 111 as a first step.

In Shropshire, Telford and Wrekin, more than 135,000 people visited emergency departments last year, almost half of these cases could be treated elsewhere, such as at a Minor Injury Unit (MIU) or a pharmacy. 

The campaign highlights the range of healthcare services available and urges residents to seek the most appropriate option for their condition.

By choosing the right service, you’ll get the advice, support, and treatment you need even faster, so you can feel your best all season long.