A Senior Staff Nurse and a Practice Educator who are based within the Medium Secure division have won top awards by De Montfort University.

Emily Bates, Acting Clinical Nurse Leader for Sunley Ward and Natasha Long, currently Ward Manager of Fairbairn, but who was a Practice Educator at the time, were named Practice Supervisor of the Year and Practice Assessor of the Year respectively.

They were both nominated for the work they did with supporting student nurse Kerry Levy who studied at De Montfort University in Leicester and has since received her nursing pin and is now working at St Andrew’s herself.

Emily and Natasha were honoured at the Celebration of Practice Learning Event which took place on Wednesday, June 14 which celebrates and honours those who have supported Student Nurses and Midwives.

Speaking of Emily, Kerry said: ““Emily’s communication and commitment in supporting me was outstanding and she would even attend the ward on her days off in order to undertake review meetings.

“Emily would frequently discuss with me, suitable strategies and ideas for engaging with patients and she helped me to problem solve as and when appropriate. She was pivotal in ensuring I was prepared for practice as a Nursing and Midwifery Council (NMC) registrant”.

Kerry said that Natasha deserved her award because she “actively sought feedback” about her performance and made sure she was given “valued information as part of her assessment process.”

Both members of staff were recognised by the university and were presented with a certificate to recognise their support.

Emily said: “I’m proud to have been recognised, but it was really Jenna who did all the hard work. She’s a credit to herself and will make an excellent nurse.”

Natasha added: “When I was supporting Kerry, I never once thought I’d end up with an award praising me, I was just doing my job and helping Jenna to be the best she could possibly be. She’s going to make an excellent nurse, and it was an honour to work so closely with her.”

A spokesperson for the awards said: “Here at De Montfort University we want to celebrate the hard work and achievements of our Practice Partners and the invaluable support they provide for Student Nurses and Midwives.

“The Celebration of Practice Learning Event celebrates outstanding student feedback, prizes for nominated individuals, talks from key speakers and a chance to liaise and network within your community.”