Helen receives a national award

A healthcare support worker’s compassion and commitment to her patients has been recognised with a national award.

Helen Garlinge, who works on Kent ward at the Kent and Canterbury Hospital, received a Chief Nursing Officer award from NHS England after being nominated by ward sister Olivia Jubber.

The award aims to celebrate support workers who make a real difference to their patients and colleagues, and to recognise the vital role they play.

Olivia said: “We are so proud of Helen and delighted she has been chosen to receive this award.

“As a colleague, Helen is a joy to work with. She is a bundle of energy and fun when you need it, but also a caring and compassionate support. 

“Her laugh will lift your spirit and keeps you motivated to keep going, even under the greatest pressure. 

“Where Helen shines the most is as a compassionate advocate for her patients. 

“She is able to get on with everyone, no matter their background or beliefs. She has a friendly and open personality which patients love, and her cheeky sense of humour rarely fails to lift their spirits. 

“She always notices when somebody needs extra help and is willing to give it or find the best solution to support them. And if help is not forthcoming, she will pursue it until her patients get what they need to be more comfortable, in less pain and to have more privacy and dignity.”  

Helen, who lives in Herne Bay, has worked at K&C for two years. She is part of a team identifying areas that can be improved on the ward, coming up with strategies and working with colleagues to put them into action.

She also helps organise team events including charity fundraisers and social get-togethers.

She said: “I am very proud and grateful to receive this award, and to be recognised for doing my job, which I absolutely love.

“I have never been so well supported in a job, and I always do my best to make sure every patient is treated as we would want our loved ones to be treated.”

Nominations for the CNO award are reviewed by a panel and awarded to people who demonstrate NHS values including working together for patients, compassion, commitment to quality care and championing equality, diversity and inclusion.