The NBT Hero Awards usually take place 6 times a year, with judges filtering through 30-40 nominations in between ceremonies. But between December 2020 and January 2021, over 100 nominations were submitted by staff for their colleagues - showing appreciation for providing support, humour and resilience during one of the most challenging periods of the COVID-19 pandemic. As a result, an extra ceremony was organised to make sure all nominations could be seen by the judging panel.
As is now usual, the winners were invited to attend a virtual ceremony on Friday afternoon, where Chief Executive Evelyn Barker and Director of Estates and Facilities Simon Wood took it in turns to read through the nominations for those present, and to thank the winners for their outstanding efforts in going above and beyond to make NBT a better place to work.
Read the full nominations below!
Aidan Marsh (Consultant, ICU)
nominated by Keith Davies (Consultant, ICU)
Since the beginning of the COVID pandemic, Aidan has provided strong, sensible and equitable clinical leadership of a department under huge stress. He seems to work every hour of every day and is always approachable, fair and even-tempered. He's an unsung hero who keeps his light under a bushel but has led the unit extremely well during this hugely stressful period. I’m extremely impressed with how the ICU team have contributed and managed the trust’s response to the pandemic and a big part of this is down to Aidan’s leadership, patience and clinical expertise. Most definitely an NBT Hero.
Andy Parsons, Lucy Holmes and Pharmacy mega team
nominated by Lorna Burrows (Consultant Anaesthetist)
COVID-19 put an enormous strain on the provision of drugs nationally and also the consumables required to administer them. Rapidly acquired data surrounding innovative management also required equally rapid turnaround of new protocols and guidelines. Andy, Lucy and their team of pharmacists rose to this challenge without question or concern for their own existing workload. Each challenge was met with an enthusiasm and determination to ensure NBT could continue to look after our patients safely in these challenging times. The speed with which they were able to complete what was asked of them was a true marvel to witness. They were amazing and I don't think we could have managed the first COVID-19 wave as well as we did without them. Pharmacy are not often in the spotlight, but are such an essential component of our organisation. They ensure we can continue to deliver excellent care, even in the face of adversity. Thank you to the team for everything they do.
Carol Perryman (Assistant Practitioner, 33B)
nominated by Alison Bevaart (Physiotherapist)
Carol is an amazing Assistant Practitioner, always pushing patients to be as independent as possible. She doesn't just do the tasks for the patients; she enables them to do it for themselves. I have even had a patient comment on how beneficial she was in their recovery stating that Carol "made me wipe my own bottom - that was the first time I have done that in a month, and I am pleased I know I can!" She helps the patients achieve their best possible outcome by standing back and encouraging the patient to regain independence. She always has a smile on and is always working so hard making sure the patients are as comfortable as can be. Thank you so much for all your hard work Carol, we therapists massively appreciate it.
Pathology Stores Team
nominated by Robert Moore (Senior Genetic Technologist)
Throughout the pandemic the Path Stores Team have been key in distributing the PPE for all staff across both buildings, in addition they have bent over backwards to help departments who had problems with orders, supply issues, equipment deliveries, repairs... the list goes on. From my own perspective they have provided enormous help with the delivery and rescheduling of deliveries of large pieces of equipment and supported our department with essential PPE alternatives when our primary supplier was not able to deliver at very short notice. On top of this they always go about their work with a friendly approach and a smile which is much needed during the current climate.
Stefanie Jones, Louise Gethin and Emily Perry (Research Nurses)
nominated by Emma Gendall (Senior Research Nurse)
In the week between Christmas and New Year, this team of 3 research nurses worked incredibly hard. They had been visiting COVID wards to recruit participants for the Recovery Trial - an urgent public health study to find new treatments for COVID-19. On New Year's Eve all three of them went above and beyond, returning to the ward to try and recruit a patient after the doctor had called the son to discuss the study with them and they were keen for their relative to take part. This was professional and caring of all three of them to go above and beyond in order to offer research to as many people as possible.
Fiona Murphy (Specialty Emergency Doctor, ED)
nominated by Ellie Day (Consultant, Emergency Medicine)
In November 2018, Fiona was part of a small team that initiated the ‘PIMS’ or positive incident management system. PIMS recognises positive acts made in the emergency department for people who go above and beyond their job role. Anyone can be nominated, whether an ED nurse, or a visiting doctor to the department, or a taxi driver, or a volunteer. Fiona collates the nominations, finds whoever the person is and contacts them (mostly by email). The process has gone from strength to strength and having started on paper and is now a QR code. Fiona does all this in her spare time, she also ensures there is a prize (e.g. plant/coffee voucher) for the winner each month. There were 78 PIMS in the first year and over 700 in 2020. Fiona presents best messages in the ED clinical governance every month and elevates the mood of all attending. A lot of staff are feeling stressed and tired at the moment, but getting a PIMS nomination never fails to brighten someone’s day.
Gemma Watkins (MS Specialist Nurse, Bristol Brain Centre)
nominated by Dr Mark Cossburn (Consultant Neurologist)
Gemma has been pivotal to the MS team response to the COVID pandemic. She has been quick to change her practice to embrace new ways of consulting with patients when they have not been able to attend in person. Her work has meant that no MS patient has been without contact and support during this time. Her cheery manner and dedication to her patients has provided the rest of the team with a boost in morale during the most challenging periods of the crisis. She has always been available to cover for absent colleagues and has flexed her role to ensure patients needing vital infusions were not delayed when staff were forced into self-isolation. Additionally, not content with just finding ways to provide our usual service under trying circumstances, Gemma has been instrumental in the setting up of a new collaborative service for pregnant women with MS, providing enhanced care including joint obstetric/MS team consultations for high risk pregnancies.
Georgina Wilkie (PA to the Director of BWPC & Office Manager)
nominated by Steph Williamson (Procurement Systems Analyst)
George is absolutely the bedrock of our department and this has never been more apparent than it has recently. She is always available for supporting any member of the team, even outside of work and despite how busy she is. As an example, I have recently been having anxiety issues arising from public transport, and George made time to sit on the phone to me while I was travelling via public transport, so that I didn't panic. She is a truly positive influence on those around her, but at the same time, isn't afraid to lay down the law when it needs to be!
Jude Clipsom (Patient Safety Nurse)
nominated by Hannah Morris (Deputy Quality Governance Lead, Medicine)
Jude began by offering her assistance to the new Pfizer vaccination hub when it was first set up. Throughout the last few months Jude has run the vaccination hub under tremendous pressure, with daily guidance changes being just one of them. Throughout all of this she has remained professional, calm and kind. Jude has made an amazing contribution to NBT during this difficult time and has made a difference throughout BNSSG by vaccinating their staff as well. Jude's commitment to NBT during this time should not go unnoticed, she thoroughly deserves this recognition for all the hard work she has put in! Working with Jude in the vaccination hub has been an absolute pleasure!
Kerri Wright (Therapy Support Worker, Stroke)
nominated by Alison Harrington (Therapy Support Worker, Stroke)
I am the Band 4 within the community Early Supported Discharge Team, a team which has seen many challenges over the last year with long term sickness due to COVID. Kerri joined the team on a temporary basis, and straight way made a real impact, helping set up electronic notes, supporting my role and helping others within the team. She has also trained and supported workers within Early Supported Discharge. I was personally very sorry when she had to return to her usual role, but understood that she was needed elsewhere! This is why I think Kerri deserves an NBT Hero Award. Thank you so much Kerri, you are a real asset to ESD and to Therapy.
Neal Beans (FM Team Leader)
nominated by Wendy Williams (Receptionist, FM Helpdesk)
Neal is always very helpful and nothing is too much trouble for him. He is always ready to support anyone who asks for it. For example, when I worked on reception on the wards we had a patient on end of life care whose daughter was getting married in the Sanctuary. Neal took the patient down himself and stayed until after his shift to bring the patient back to the ward. I now work on the Facilities helpdesk which involves working nights, and as a lone worker Neal always checks up on me to make sure I am okay. He is also very hands on – when the porters are busy he gets involved himself to make sure the team are supported. Thank you Neal it’s great working with you.
Annie Langford (Interim Divisional Director of Nursing)
nominated by Laura Harris (Physiotherapist, Frailty Team 32A)
and by Jet O’Neill (Dementia Matron)
and Hannah Morris (Deputy Quality Governance Lead, Medicine)
Laura
Annie has stepped up to fill the role of Divisional Director of Nursing for Medicine, and has worked tirelessly to deliver support and guidance to teams during a period of constantly changing demands. Whilst doing this she has maintained the care and dedication to the people she manages. She always checks to make sure everyone around her is doing ok and aims to spread a smile whenever you see her.
Jet
During the current challenges presented by COVID-19, Annie has stepped up to the Divisional Director of nursing role. Despite the obvious pressures, Annie has remained calm and communicates almost hourly to ensure we are able to support any changes or provides information for the wider teams, late into the evening and early in the morning. This has not gone unnoticed and provides a role model to follow. In addition to all this, there are inevitably individual staff complexities and Annie has provided advice, support and compassion to in every one of these situations, creating a working atmosphere conducive to maintaining morale, leadership and care. A small no fuss touch is when a much needed cup of tea magically appears at your arm – just one example of Annie’s intuitive response that makes all the difference.
Hannah
Annie has worked non-stop during the challenging times over the past year, ensuring that all staff have her support when they need it. She is kind and compassionate and despite being under tremendous pressure, takes the time to ensure that staff are well and supports them in any way possible. Annie has been an asset to the medicine division during this time and she is continuously making a difference to the lives of patients and staff!
Annette Hodson (Assistant Practitioner, Ambleside)
nominated by Denise King (Supervisory Sister, Ambleside)
Annette has worked at Ambleside for many years and is a valued member of the team. Annette is a wonderful advocate for the patients and works hard to make our patient’s journey through dialysis a little less difficult. All our patients love Annette and she is a friendly ear when they are struggling. Annette is also an amazing supportive colleague to everyone on the team. She has been a shoulder to lean on for many of the team members and a great friend to all. Thank you!
Clare Norrie (Community Midwife)
nominated by Harriet Birtwistle (Midwife)
Clare is simply an amazing human and midwife! Pre-COVID she was already happy to go above and beyond for colleagues and patients. Since COVID came along, she has shone even more. She always goes the extra mile for women, and particularly in caring for vulnerable and at risk women in the community, as well as the general public. Clare has been caring for local shielding neighbours, doing their shopping between shifts, all while caring for her own at risk children and mother. Whenever I have had a challenging shift or situation, Clare goes out her way to ring and check in to see how I am. She never wants any thanks, she is the most gracious, kind and humble person I know, and after always smiling and going the extra mile through a very challenging past year, she deserves recognition. She organised a team "recognition" day for a colleague all by herself, as thanks, and I would love for her to be appreciated and recognised. Clare is 1 in a million, we are so lucky to have her.
Diane Hepburn (Senior Staff Nurse, Cotswold Outpatients)
nominated by Sarah Sheppard (HCA, Cotswold Outpatients)
Di has only recently been promoted to senior staff nurse and she has already gone above and beyond for all the staff working under her. Nothing is ever too big or too small for her to offer to help. She is kind and patient and fair. She has worked tirelessly with management to make sure that clinics run smoothly with the correct amount of staff allowing for staff to get the breaks they deserve. Di always puts her patients and her staff above herself, and gives the patients the best possible experience whilst in her care - not just from a physical health perspective but from a mental health point of view as well, listening to their thoughts and feelings during this very difficult time. Di also is in charge of the rota for the department and works so hard to make sure that staff get to work the days they prefer, the hours they need and have the time off they require. I recently witnessed her supporting a patient during a crash call and she was incredible. She supported the patients head off the floor and spoke quietly to the patient even though the patient was unconscious and unresponsive. Di explained at every stage what was happening and reassured the patient that she was safe and being looked after while the doctors worked to resuscitate her.
Elizabeth Davis (Receptionist, Pain Clinic)
nominated by Richard Wilson (Staff Nurse, Pain Clinic)
I would like to nominate our receptionist at the Pain Clinic, Elizabeth Davis. She is always going the extra mile, either helping patients or staff. Often patients attending are in great distress due to their chronic pain problems and Anne is always very caring and professional when dealing with people. It seems nothing is ever a problem for her! I've been in nursing over 30 years and can honestly say she is the best receptionist I have ever worked with! I am confident in saying that everyone in the Pain Clinic would support her nomination!
The Switchboard Operators
nominated by Suzanne Crew (Site Nurse Practitioner, Hospital at Night)
Hospital at Night could not function without the amazing NBT switchboard operators. They take all of the National Early Warning Score calls from the hospital, as well as dealing with a multitude of phone calls, twenty four hours a day. They are always there for us when we ring to check details on patients who have been scoring on NEWS calls, when the wards do not answer. They connect us to other departments, both in and out of the hospital whenever we need this, and are a calm voice in the madness of a busy night shift, providing reassurance that someone is always there for us, especially when they carry out their lone worker safety checks on us. When you realise that in just one night shift we can get over one hundred NEWS calls, as well as other emergency calls, how they manage to retain the smile in their voices I do not know!
Stephanie Hall (Staff Nurse, ICU)
nominated by Anna McKillop (Sister, ICU)
I have worked with Steph for years now and I am now lucky enough to be her band 6 on ICU. Over the last year, she has nursed patients throughout COVID. She goes that extra mile within her team and creates a great sense of team spirit and positivity. For the last year or so, she has been publishing a monthly pod newsletter called the Crani-chronicle which keeps the team up to date with birthdays/leavers/new starters/fun facts happening with the team and also allows the pod to vote for their MVP of the month! It takes a lot of work and she does it within her spare time - everyone on the pod loves it! Most recently, she built a website for the pod to support new starters. It contains all the info needed for the role and handy hints and tips. It also has a biography of everyone in the team so we understand each other’s backgrounds, which is very useful with us being such a big team. During the pandemic, we have all recognised that communication with families and their loved ones has been tricky, with most family unable to visit when their loved ones are so critically unwell. Steph has taken it upon herself to create laminates for every bed space on the unit (all 48 of them) to encourage all members of staff to find ways to keep the family in the loop with facetime/delivery of photos/making sure we are more descriptive over the telephone so they can understand fully what is going on. She deserves this NBT Hero award for going that extra mile in so many ways! She is a role model to all Band 5s on the unit.
Suzanne Crew (Site Nurse Practitioner, Hospital at Night)
nominated by George Duffield (Matron, Medicine Recruitment and Retention)
Suzanne is a true NBT hero as she has played an incredibly pivotal role in ensuring patients are kept safe at night. Her experience and calming demeanour is invaluable in challenging and often stressful situations. Legions of ward staff have come to see Suzanne as a real hero at night time, providing expert assessment and interventions. On top of this, she has acted as a mentor and supervisor for scores of senior nurses and doctors. She is also heavily involved in Trust-wide safety initiatives and is a lead for serious falls. Suzanne's contribution to patient safety has been incredible and deserves to be noted. Thank you so much Suzanne you are amazing!