More national awards for Trust staff

Two colleagues who go above and beyond for their patients have been recognised by the Chief Nursing Officer (CNO) for England.

Ophthalmic technicians Sunitha Freddy and Kevin Taylor, who work at the Kent and Canterbury Hospital, received a CNO award from NHS England after being nominated by their colleagues.

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.

Sunitha was nominated by ophthalmic technician Nurjahan Ema, who highlighted her care for their vulnerable patients.

Nurjahan said: “Sunitha is a naturally hardworking person who likes to be busy. No job is ever too big or too small and will always be carried out to the best of her ability and always with a smile.

“If Sunitha isn’t busy caring for patients, then she will be somewhere tidying, cleaning or organising an area. She never needs to be asked; she will always be one step ahead of the rest of us.

“Sunitha knows how to make people feel comfortable and cared for and has a great sense of humour too. She is queen of problem solving.

“Nominating her for this award shows how much we appreciate the work that she does and how much of an asset she is to our team.”

Kevin was nominated by specialist surgery matron Martine Henniker, who said he was popular with staff and patients.

She said: “From his first day in the NHS working for East Kent Hospitals, Kevin has demonstrated his commitment to the patients that he helps care for and the team he works with.

“Kevin regularly receives personal mentions in our friends and family feedback, notably around how well he explains everything that is happening.

“When we share this with him, he is very keen to say that it is a team effort.

“Many of our patients will attend the department on multiple occasions, and the relationship that he builds with the patient and their loved ones over their potentially multiple visits enables them to feel safe, informed and safe.”

Healthcare assistant Helen Garlinge, who works on Kent ward at K&C, also received a CNO award.