A Clinical Nurse Leader dubbed the “superhero” of autism spectrum disorder (ASD) services at St Andrew’s has been recognised for his hard work at a regional awards ceremony.

Phil Labrum, who is based on Hawkins ward in Fitzroy House, was ‘highly commended’ at the Great British Care Awards East Midlands regional final.

The purpose of the awards is to pay tribute to those individuals who have demonstrated outstanding excellence within the care sector.

Phil received the accolade in the Social Care Nurse category. Describing his work, the judges said: “Phil is passionate about adapting approaches to meet the needs of the people he cares for.

“One of Phil’s key strengths is reflective practice, he looks for approaches that enable the people in his care to feel empowered to lead successful lives. He gave strong examples of how he has improved people’s lives by putting their needs first.”

Phil was nominated by his colleague Jennifer Mytton. The Specialist Nurse, who was “overjoyed” to hear the news that Phil had been recognised, said: “Phil comes to work everyday at St Andrews with a smile on his face. He’s our superhero of ASD as he shows up for the patients, no matter what is going on, how busy he is or how many hours he has done that week, as far as he’s concerned, his patients always, always come first.

“The patients have a really positive therapeutic relationship with him which is built on mutual respect and his colleagues all rely on him for guidance, support and a boost in morale when they need it. He is an absolute diamond and we are extremely lucky to have Phil within our team in St Andrews.”

There are twenty one awards categories available for nomination, which represent all areas of the social care sector, whether it be older people or specialist services, residential or home care.

Nominations for the 2022 Regional Awards have already opened and submissions are being accepted until August 1, 2022.

Phil said: “It’s slightly embarrassing that I’m being rewarded for what I perceive as just doing my job. But I also very honoured and humbled that my colleagues and patients thinks so highly of me. I love what I do and my patients mean everything to me, so it’s nice when I hear that my work with them makes such a difference to them.”

Anyone who would like to submit an entry for the next Great British Care Awards, click here.