Tomorrow, Friday 6 October, we will be holding our 2023 Paget’s People Awards ceremony to recognise staff at the James Paget who have made an exceptional contribution to patient care and supported their colleagues over the past 12 months.
This year we received over 600 nominations from patients, their families and colleagues at the hospital – and we’d like to thank everyone who made a nomination too.
Our judging panel - which includes staff members as well as senior managers, doctors and nurses – had a difficult job of selecting our finalists but those featured here have distinguished themselves, truly going ‘above and beyond’.
We're sharing lots of photos on our Facebook page highlighting the nominees but you can read a little more about all of them below too.
The first of our Paget’s People Awards finalists are Ward 1. They were highlighted by patients, relatives and colleagues for their hard work, dedication and care.
One said; “We have been overwhelmed by the kindness and compassion that everyone has shown. We have been supported by wonderful staff, nothing has been too much trouble.”
Another said; “The staff are so helpful and understanding - I had two strokes and they helped me get through it.”
A colleague said; “Patients leave the hospital and are able to have a quality of life that they and their families may never have dreamt of as a result of the pure hard work, dedication and care given by every member of the ward team.”
Ward 9 are among our finalists for our Paget’s People Awards 2023.
They were highlighted in one nomination as ‘shining stars - an amazing and dedicated team – they looked after me brilliantly’.
One nomination said; “They have had many challenges but are passionate about providing high quality care and always try to do what’s right for patients.”
They were also praised for organising a funeral for a patient’s wife after they learnt he had no family to help – arranging flowers, a chaplain and transport.
Ward 10, our children’s ward, were nominated fora Paget’s People Award forproviding outstanding care delivered with kindness and compassion.
One nomination said; “Our son was incredibly poorly but because of the quick actions of the medical team he was stabilised and is now thankfully on the mend” while another said; “The care my daughter received was exceptional. They are incredibly kind and caring people who went the extra mile to make sure her anxieties were put at ease.”
The team were also praised for supporting student nurses on the ward to learn best practice, enhancing their development and making them feel part of the team.
Among the teams nominated for this year’s Paget’s People Awards are our Cataract booking co-ordinators.
They were praised as ‘a wonderful team who work together to support patients for pre-surgery appointments and to schedule surgeries’.
One nomination said; “They have a wealth of knowledge and are able to answer queries and put patients’ minds at ease before their operations.
“They are dependable, welcoming, willing to help and kind. They always have a positive attitude to work and have a passion for the job.”
Our Chaplaincy team are also up for a Paget’s People Award. They were described as ‘amazing in every way’.
One nomination read; “The team were there for my father knowing he only had weeks to live – they had the Christmas band playing outside his window, which dad loved.
“They supported us through the most upsetting times, even on Christmas Day.”
The Family Liaison Officer team, who supported patients and their families through the Covid pandemic, have also been highlighted for recognition at our Paget’s People Awards.
Nominations read; “They were amazing when my mum was in hospital – they went to visit her every day and always made time for her to sit and talk.”
“Everyone on the team was so friendly and kind. The team organised telephone calls and video calls when visitors couldn’t visit face to face and provided a listening ear and friendly face.”
Our Paediatric Diabetes team received a number of nominations praising both the care and support provided and the activities the team have organised for young people.
One nomination read; “The whole team turned around a heart-breaking few days for us after our son went into Diabetic Ketoacidosis. Now we feel like we have a little diabetes family constantly caring and checking up on us.”
Another said; “The whole team are extremely supportive and understanding – we know we can call on them at any time and they will help if we need it.”
Our Plaster Room team are another of our Paget’s People Awards finalists.
Their nominations praised them for being kind, caring and positive
One said; “They went above and beyond for my daughter who suffers with anxiety – they took time to calm her down, explaining and answering all her questions.
Another said; “I was feeling really scared but they made me feel really comfortable and made me smile when I wanted to cry. They made a stressful awful situation much easier to deal with and their care, compassion, humour and professionalism are second to none.”
Our Surgical Outpatients team are also nominated for a Paget’s People Award.
They were described as ‘A friendly and caring team who work well together and look out for one another’.
“One of two ways members of the public begin a journey in hospital, patients are often anxious and the team do all they can to alleviate this anxiety and make their journey positive from the start.”
Our 2023 Paget’s People finalists come from across our hospital, with doctors, nurses, midwives, allied health professionals, domestic and admin staff among our nominees.
Three of our Therapies team are among the nominees. Emily Leeks, Melissa McGeary & Anna Bakerhave been praised for doing incredible work to transform Therapies student capacity and placements at our hospital.
Their nomination read; “Working with universities, they have set up role placements in the fields of research and dementia, with robust mentorship, group support and feedback opportunities throughout.
“The post placement feedback from students has been incredibly positive and their work has been praised and shared across the region and beyond.
“They have been instrumental in turning placements into successful recruitment of newly qualified therapists as well.”
Another of our Therapies team - Sarah Brennan - is also a finalist for a Paget’s People Award. She is described asa role model and an inspiration who always strives to deliver the best patient care.
One of her nominations said; “She has taken the lead in a number of initiatives, including an exercise and activity group for stroke patients and teaching HCAs, and has a wonderful ability to make new members of the team feel welcomed and valued.
“She has a brilliant manner with patients – the workplace if definitely brighter place to be when Sarah is at work.”
Cardiology Nurse Specialist Nicki Cattermole is also among our Paget’s People Awards finalists.
She is described as a brilliant nurse with outstanding knowledge of her specialty.
“She always puts people and their families at ease and is generous with her time, explaining what happened to a patient and what they can expect,” said one nomination.
“Patients are always able to recall her name because of the time and care she provides.”
She was praised for being highly skilled and using her knowledge to provide the best care to her patients.
Dr John Chapman is one of those who has been highlighted for his good work.
One nominations said; “He has done fantastic work to raise awareness of paediatric research at the James Paget…and has given so many local families an opportunity to participate in studies to benefit their children.”
Another said; “He is one of the country’s leading pioneers in paediatric peanut allergy studies.
“He has worked incredibly hard to support research…that has changed the lives of his patients. His reputation for high quality research has led to collaborations with other researchers around the country.”
Another of our popular Paget’s People Awards finalists is Racheal Crane, one of our maternity team.
One nomination said; “She is as selfless as they come. She cares deeply for anyone and everyone she comes into contact with… and always finds to listen and lend support.
She was praised for being phenomenal at her job and for her kindness and compassion.
“She can bring the sunshine on the most difficult days – she is an inspiration to everyone she meets.”
Joanne Crosby, a member of our Therapies team, was highlighted as having a wealth of knowledge and experience that she was open and willing to share.
Her nominations said; “She is a fantastic and engaging educator who often runs meetings to support colleagues learning and development goals,” and “She always has time to listen and support and provides excellent impartial advice.”
She was also praised for initiating and helping to support a wedding for an end-of-life patient, organising the event and enabling family members to attend.
The fourth finalist for our Paget’s People Awards that we’re featuring today was described as ‘a total breath of fresh air’
Amy Currie works with our research team. Her nominations said; “Every task we give her she takes on with such enthusiasm.
“She puts so much effort into each and every piece of work. She is friendly, easy to approach and is always willing to go above and beyond at short notice.
“She arrives every day with a huge smile on her face and all of her work is very thorough and is always such a high standard.”
Our next finalist is Dr Aban Dasgupta, who received nominations from patients’ families and colleagues.
He was described as being exceptional in every way; “His communication with patients, their families and peers/ healthcare staff is exemplary.
“He makes sure everyone is heard and works very hard to make sure everything is running smoothly.
“His positive approach is motivating and refreshing to see – he encourages all other team members to put the same effort in.”
One nomination said; “He supported my mum and us a family – his care, compassion and genuine empathy were exceptional.”
Another finalist for our Paget’s People Awards is Rene Gray, who was described asepitomising everything a professional should be. His nominations read;
“He’s hugely committed to his role and is welcoming, respectful and encouraging to all.
“One of the most important things is his willingness to don his uniform and assist teams in times of staff shortage, helping the department to meet clinical demand to maintain patient flow.
“He works tirelessly for the good of his patients and his colleagues and is kind, empathetic, funny, hardworking and always willing to listen and help.
“An avid researcher, his influence and passion for research and quality improvement has been inspirational.”
Linda Jackson was another of our Paget’s People finalists who received patient and family nominations.
One said; “She takes very good care of my sister and is constantly soothing her and putting her at ease. I know when I have to go home she is in good hands.
“It may not seem like a big thing but for me it’s the world. Linda takes the time to tell her what’s going on and nothing is too much trouble for her. I can’t thank her enough.”
Another said; “She was exceptionally kind to me when I was very confused and muddled about everything. She always took the time to make sure I was aware what was going on – I don’t think I could have got through it without her patience and total understanding.”
Gillian Macgregor-Linnett, one of our PaediatricDiabetes Specialist Nurses, is also in the running for a Paget’s People Award.
She was described as going ‘above and beyond’ for young people living with diabetes;
“Last year she arranged an open day for young people and this year she created a local Youth Forum to support young people living with diabetes, so they can share their experiences and know they are not alone.”
She was praised for her enthusiasm and passion for her work.
“She is a warm caring personality who always responds quickly to any queries we have in a supportive way.”
We’re continuing to highlight some of our Paget’s People Awards finalists this week, ahead of the awards ceremony on Friday.
Another of the nominees is Dale Marshall – one of our Domestic Services team. He was praised by staff as always being smiley and happy.
“He works so hard and is kind and generous.”
“Dale brightens up our day with his cheery personality and goes out of his way to keep all our areas clean and safe.”
“He is one of the nicest and friendliest people – he’s a breath of fresh air and nothing is too much trouble.”
Our next Paget’s People finalist is described as a champion of all things Allied Health Professional notonly within the Trust but in the Intergrated Care System, the region and beyond.
Tazivei Masarira was praised for being supportive and an amazing mentor.
“He brought together the voices for AHPs in the AHP forum and helped us to recognise each other more, looking for ways we can support each other as a collective.”
“He is an incredible asset – his calm and methodical approach and his ability to raise the profile of the work AHPs do is inspiring.”
Marica McHugh, a member of our Mortuary and Bereavement team, who is among our Paget’s People finalists for 2023, was praised for being kind and helpful.
One nomination said; “The world would be a better place with more Maricas in it – she made a very difficult period in my life a lot easier than it otherwise would have been.
“She is a great asset to the James Paget – she went far above and beyond the call of duty and did so with great kindness and compassion.”
Another Paget’s People finalist, who was described as a pillar not only of the education department but the entire hospital, is Tracy Miller-Burrage
Her nominations said; “She always has time for others to help with their needs – she will do all she can to aid you.”
“She is extraordinarily helpful, kind and generous. She is a fountain of knowledge and is well respected by all.”
Another praised her as one of the hardest working individuals; “She is always going beyond what is expected of her and is always supporting other members of the team – she is a pleasure to work with.”
“She has the amazing capacity to engage and connect with people in all walks of life.”
Paget’s People Award finalist Kirsti Parslow-Williams was described in one of her nominations as ‘outstanding’;
“I knew I was in safe hands – everything was always so clearly explained.
“I felt completely safe and taken care of - I’m so incredibly grateful for her – she even stayed after her shift finished to make sure I was OK.”
Millie Roper is another of our Paget’s People finalists. She was described as having a natural empathy and caring nature.
“The sheer amount of information and clinical skills she has needed to learn for her role is immense but whenever there is a moment she is not carrying out tasks you will find her sourcing information to increase her knowledge.
“There was a time when she had a patient who she was concerned about and did the most professional handover of information to a senior member of staff to ensure the patient was safe.”
Chloe White, of our EADU team was described asdedicated and hard-working in her Paget’s People nominations.
“She displays a maturity and confidence beyond her years and this paired with empathy and understanding was so welcome in her caring for my husband.”
“Faced with any question or problem she endeavours to resolve – she is a credit to the NHS and the James Paget.”
And Emily Wilson another of our Paget’s People Awards finalists was praised in her nomination for being a credit to her profession.
“Emily is the most amazing midwife – supportive, friendly, kind, informative and always there.
“She is so knowledgeable, easy to talk to and was always able to answer questions – the care I received throughout my pregnancy was truly incredible. I will forever be thankful to her.”
Lisa Hutchinson was highlighted for her volunteer work and her long-standing fundraising for the James Paget.
In addition to her volunteer work with the Paediatric Epilepsy team, Lisa raises money for the James Paget Hospital Charity by selling ‘Tia’s Treasures’ handmade bracelets and key rings.
One nomination said; “She’s helped organise so many informative boards for display around the hospital and replenished leaflets in the childrens clinic, showing a real commitment to her volunteer role.”
While another said; “She’s friendly and is making a real difference supporting the Paediatric Epilepsy team – her passion for the cause is evident for all to see.”
Casey Shepheard is another of our Paget’s People Awards nominees. He was praised for goingabove and beyond to support colleagues and visitors.
“He is polite and friendly and nothing is too much trouble.He always goes the extra mile and is a true team player – he will come in if we need cover and will stay longer if needed.
“He adapts well to change and is supportive to all.”
Patricia Mays is a well know face around our hospital and in her Paget’s People Awards nominations she was described as a valued member of the team who is integral to the service provided to patients.
“Professional and friendly she makes patients and staff feel at ease when she helps on reception.
“She is a delight – she always has a smile on her face and is always there to help. She make everyone who meets her feel a little more lifted on the days she is with us.”
And our final Paget’s People volunteer nominees are our PAT (Pets As Therapy) Dog team.
“You often see these lovely dogs visiting wards, with their tails wagging and bringing a smile to all they meet.
“The owners give up their time to bring them in and they bring so much joy to patients and staff alike.”
“The wellbeing benefits they bring to patients is immeasurable – they brighten up wards and departments instantly and enhance our patients’ stay in hospital.”
Our final nominees are all being highlighted for their fundraising efforts for our hospital charity, after they each raised hundreds of pounds for our surgical robot appeal.
Consultant surgeon Kamal Aryal raised in excess of £2,000 for our hospital charity Robot Appeal after initiating a fundraising run in the Blickling half marathon.
He encouraged other hospital staff to take part and completed the 13.1 mile run in March.
Surgeons Christopher Liao, Carl Philpott and Vamsi Velchuru and Divisional Operations Director Jonathan Harrowven, together completed a 200k cycle ride – the ‘Double Dutch’ cycle challenge - which started and ended in Huntingdon and took in parts of Norfolk, Lincolnshire and Cambridgeshire. They completed the epic ride in eight hours and 34 minutes.
And consultant surgeon Roshan Lal completed the London Marathon to raise funds for the James Paget Charity Robot Appeal – as well as running in the Blickling half marathon.
“He has used his love of running to raise funds for the appeal – by being sponsored and collecting donations through both events.”
You’ve met our Paget’s People Awards finalists for 2023 and now we’d like to thank all our sponsors for supporting our awards ceremony.
Your generous donations enable us to celebrate our staff and we are grateful for your continuing support.
