NHS Lothian Health Heroes Announced

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Health heroes across Lothian have been voted by the public to receive a top award for their hard work and commitment.

NHS Lothian’s annual Celebrating Success Awards recognise staff who embrace the organisation’s core values of care and compassion, dignity and respect, quality, teamwork and openness, honesty and responsibility.

The ‘Health Hero’ category allows patients and the public to nominate any healthcare worker who has made a real difference to them or a loved-one by going above and beyond in their day-to-day role, and who has put their heart and soul into their work. Three finalists have now been selected to go into the finals.

Stephen Elliott, Clinical Ward Manager at the Western General Hospital, has been nominated for his dedicated commitment to a patient receiving chemotherapy. Stephen listened and encouraged her, never missing a session in the four months treatment when others couldn’t visit the hospital.

The Intensive Treatment Unit (ITU) Team in the Royal Infirmary of Edinburgh were nominated for their outstanding care to patients and their families during the height of the COVID-19 pandemic. During uncertain times, staff kept in constant contact with families updating them on their loved ones and giving gold standard care.

Also making the shortlist is Vicky Knox, Staff Nurse in the Lochranza Ward at the Royal Hospital for Children and Young People. Vicky went above and beyond for her patient caring for him and helping to reassure his mum.

Janis Butler, Director of Human Resources, said: “Well done to everyone who has been nominated for this year’s awards and a special congratulations to those that were shortlisted.

“Being shortlisted is a huge achievement, especially with so many nominations received and such strong competition.

“I would also like to thank the people of Lothian for making their voices heard by casting their vote. It is really heartening that patients, carers and relatives took the time to tell us about staff that have made a real difference to their lives.”

There are twelve other categories where staff nominate colleagues for awards including: