East Cheshire NHS colleagues celebrate success at Dementia Care Awards

Two colleagues at East Cheshire NHS Trust (ECT) are celebrating after triumphing at the inaugural Dementia Care Awards in London.

Laura Birch was named Admiral Nurse of the Year and Lisa Nixon was the winner in the Activity Co-ordinator category.

The event, which was held at Hilton London Bankside recently, celebrated outstanding practice in dementia services and recognise a commitment to deliver outcome focussed, person centred care for people living with dementia.

The awards paid tribute to accomplishments at all levels and from across the whole of the social care sector; including services for older people, people with learning disabilities and/or autism, inspirational people living with dementia and suppliers of products and services to the sector.

Laura, an Admiral Nurse in dementia care at ECT, said:

“I am overjoyed to have won the award of Admiral Nurse of the Year!”

“With people living with dementia and their families in mind, I strive to ensure no one is alone with a diagnosis of dementia.

“I am honoured and thank everyone who supported me, including Dementia UK.

“I am so very proud of our Activities Co-ordinator Lisa for winning her award. She works hard every day to bring joy and meaningful activities to Ward 9, thinking outside the box and bringing a person-centred approach.”

Lisa, who is a regular fundraise for the dementia garden at Macclesfield District General Hospital, added:

“What an absolute honour it is to receive this award and to be recognised for the work I do.

“It is testament to the Trust and support I have been given by my amazing colleagues on Ward 9.

“Special thanks to Laura for nominating me. I am overwhelmed with gratitude.”

Paul Devlin, Deputy Chief Nurse, said:

“I am incredibly proud of the work that Laura and Lisa do every day, to ensure that some of most vulnerable patients are supported, and that they are provided with dignified care whilst in hospital.

 “Whilst caring for our patients, Laura and Lisa also provide compassionate support for the families and carers who are also affected by dementia.

“It is wonderful that their work has been recognised as exemplary, and I would like to thank them both for the work that they do every day, to make a difference.”

Pictured - Lisa Nixon (left) and Laura Birch with their awards at the Dementia Care event.