Nursing Support Worker of the Year

Nursing support workers are essential and valued members of the nursing team. They work in all health and care settings, in hospitals, care homes, communities and the independent sector, under the guidance and supervision of registered nurses. Nursing support workers job titles and roles vary depending on the area in which they are working, but they share the same values.

Open to all nursing support workers including nursing assistants, health care support workers, carers and senior carers who work as part of the nursing team. This award aims to recognise those who have made an outstanding contribution to the care of patients or residents in their nursing support worker role. 

A nursing support worker who is delegated work by a registered nurse who is working in health and social care.

The nominee should clearly demonstrate:

• a commitment to person-centred care, innovation and delivering high quality services that make a difference to the people receiving care
• the benefits their work has had for patients, clients, families and colleagues
• how their work contributes to the delivery of local and national policy and strategy within health and social care.

If you have any questions or queries regarding the awards, please get in touch by emailing scotlandnurseawards@rcn.org.uk

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Care Assistant
Braemount Nursing Care Home, Paisley, Advinia Health Care

Angela is a highly dedicated and hardworking care support worker with 28 years of experience. Known for her kindness, enthusiasm and commitment, Angela consistently advocates for the individual needs of the residents in her care. She is well-liked and respected by both residents and peers for her compassionate approach. Angela demonstrates adaptability, efficiency, and thoroughness in her work, completing tasks with excellence and on schedule. She is currently leading a successful project called ‘Strength and Balance’ aimed at improving residents' health in care homes, showing remarkable dedication by working extra hours and adjusting her schedule. Despite challenges, Angela's unwavering commitment has ensured the project's continuation and positive outcomes, earning praise from residents and families. Additionally, Angela is recognised for her efforts in fundraising and enhancing residents' quality of life through various initiatives, including personalised Christmas decorations and encouragement for the team. Overall, Angela is highly recommended for her inspirational leadership, drive, and active involvement in her work.

HCSW Education and Development Lead
NHS Greater Glasgow and Clyde

NHS Greater Glasgow and Clyde recognised the critical role of health care support workers (HCSWs) in providing safe, high-quality, person-centred care. To ensure HCSWs have the necessary skills, NHS Greater Glasgow and Clyde appointed David McLaughlin as an education and development lead. David, with a background as an HCSW himself, focuses on empowering HCSWs and fostering patient-centred care. He collaborates with various teams and professional bodies to enhance education opportunities for HCSWs. Challenges emerged when NHS Education for Scotland was tasked with reviewing career pathways for HCSWs, prompting the formation of a multidisciplinary group led by David. Evaluation involves measuring impact through shared learning opportunities and feedback mechanisms, utilising tools like the service needs analysis to inform decision-making and resource allocation.

HCSW Associate Practice Educator
Practice Development Team, NHS Tayside

Gemma’s role at Ninewells Hospital in Dundee is aimed at supporting health care support workers (HCSWs) through education and skills development. Her main objectives include providing induction, development and skills training for HCSWs across various areas. Gemma emphasises person-centeredness and kindness in her work, ensuring her values are evident in everything she does. She has initiated a community of practice to foster support among HCSWs and has been instrumental in developing the role of assistant practitioners. Gemma organised a successful celebration day for HCSWs and created online resources focusing on the fundamentals of care. She actively seeks feedback and evaluates her sessions to continually improve her work. Gemma's contributions extend beyond her immediate team, as she engages in local and national groups to promote person-centred care. Despite being naturally introverted, Gemma presents herself confidently and professionally, demonstrating consistency and high-quality work. She collaborates effectively with colleagues and is recognised as a skilled communicator and facilitator of learning. Gemma's dedication and expertise make her a valued member of the team.

Nursing Assistant, Lochview Hospital, NHS Forth Valley

Described by colleagues as a dedicated and professional nursing support worker, for 20 years Janet has worked in the learning disability service of Loch View Hospital, and her senior charge nurse says she is an integral part of the service – leading the way with care and compassion. Always advocating for those under her care, Janet strives to ensure they are recognised as people and not medical or physical conditions. She has played an important part in developing a bespoke approach to care for an individual with autism who requires seclusion due to challenging behaviour. She has developed and incorporated daily contact for him, a long process due to the individual's diagnosis and his challenges to engage with others. Janet is also described as a supportive presence on site, not only for her patients but also for family carers and her colleagues. As well as her support for direct patient care, Janet has played an integral role in maintaining a safe environment in line with local and national policy. Janet is a champion of the control book, completing environmental audits, risk assessments and infection control audits such as hand hygiene. She consistently supports and encourages staff to take an active role in these important tasks to maintain safety for both patients, visitors and her colleagues.