A group of five Walsall NHS colleagues have been recognised at the annual Queen’s Nursing Institute of Community (QICN) Awards.
They have been awarded the prestigious title of Queen’s Nurse, which acknowledges their exceptional commitment to high standards of patient care, learning, and leadership in Community Nursing.
They are:
• Kelly Geffen – Community Divisional Director of Nursing
• Dawn Asbury – Community Senior Matron
• Abbie Higgins – Community Senior Lead Specialist Rehabilitation
• Amy Bevan – Clinical Team Lead
• Liz Tandy – Trainee Advanced Clinical Practitioner
In addition, Kelly was also awarded the Leading Strategically Award.
Kelly said: “As Community Nurses I feel we have the best job in the world, it is such a privilege to care for our patients within the place they call home.
“Through all the things I have achieved in my career, this one feels extra special.
“I’m proud of the care and support we provide every day, and we are all really enjoyed the awards ceremony.”
The title is not an award for past service but indicates a commitment to high standards of patient care, learning and leadership.
Nurses who hold the title benefit from developmental workshops, bursaries, networking opportunities, and a shared professional identity.
Steph Lawrence MBE, Chief Executive of the QICN said: “On behalf of the QICN I would like to congratulate Kelly, Dawn, Abbie, Amy and Liz and welcome them as a Queen’s Nurse.
“Queen’s Nurses serve as leaders and role models in community nursing, delivering high-quality health care across the country.
“The application and assessment process to become a Queen’s Nurse is rigorous and requires clear commitment to improving care for patients, their families and carer. We look forward to working with all our new Queen’s Nurses who have received the title this year.”
Lisa Carroll, Chief Nursing Officer at Walsall Healthcare NHS Trust, said: “I am delighted our Nurses have been recognised for their significant contribution to our profession, and to the countless patients and their families who have benefitted from the care they have provided.
“They embody the very spirit of Nursing which is compassion, care, expertise, and dedication.
“Well done to all.”