STAFF at Salisbury District Hospital have been rewarded for their professionalism and commitment to patients as part of the hospital’s Striving for Excellence Awards.

There were 11 categories in all, and award nominations were made by patients, staff and volunteers, with members of the public voting for the winners in the Service Improvement categories.

Peter Hill, Chief Executive at Salisbury NHS Foundation Trust said: “This year we have been celebrating the 21st anniversary of Salisbury District Hospital and it was particularly pleasing to be able to acknowledge the enormous contribution our staff have made to local health services over the years and give them recognition for the outstanding work that has taken place this year.”

The Trust’s chairman Nick Marsden added: “In my first full year in Salisbury I have been overwhelmed by the passion that our staff have for the NHS and their commitment to the local community and our patients. In this anniversary year I am proud to be able to give our staff the recognition they deserve and acknowledge their efforts through these awards.”

Winners and the highly commended were presented with certificates and flowers by Mr Hill Mr Marsden at a special ceremony at Salisbury District Hospital.

The award categories and winners are as follows: Chief Executive’s Leadership Award Mandy Cripps, directorate manager for surgery, for her commitment and leadership shown over the years when dealing with complex and difficult challenges

Chairman’s Outstanding Contribution Award: Dave Cates, director of fundraising, for the way he has worked tirelessly on fundraising initiatives that support patient care.

Unsung Hero Award: Graham Love, caretaker at Central Health Clinic, for his support, commitment and willingness to work over and above what is expected of him.

Customer Care Team Award: The Hospice for the compassion and sensitivity that they showed in helping a patient and the family at a difficult and emotional time.

Customer Care Individual Award Carol Evans, physiotherapy assistant, for the way in which she helped a young child through rehabilitation when she was anxious and frightened.

Living the Values Award There were joint winners in this category with Liam Thornhill, winning for his responsiveness and the friendly support he offered to staff and patients and Rosie Stennings, gynaecology outpatients sister, for her hard work, loyalty and patient focused approach to all her work.

Service Improvement Individual and Team Award: The multidisciplinary team in the Intensive Therapy Unit and Clinical Psychology for improved outcomes for critically ill patients through greater psychological input, therapy and follow up.

Service Improvement Sponsored Project Award: Redlynch and Pitton ward staff, Estates and Artcare staff for the development of an improved environment for older people through wide staff and external engagement.

Service Improvement Learning Award: This was won jointly by Kenny Duke in the portering team who developed an ergonomic and secure patient notes trolley, and doctors Neil Papworth and Tom McKearney who developed a better process for accessing clinical information out of hours through an electronic system.

Pinder Award (Mentorship Award): Rachel Holmes, Community Midwife, who has been a true role model to a student midwife who praised her professionalism and integrity.

Governors’ Volunteer Award: Arthur Kendrew, Children’s Entertainer, who has brought joy and happiness to so many sick children on Sarum Ward.

Equality and Diversity Award: Anne Phillimore, Assistant Audiologist, for her true passion in setting up a project to deliver hearing aid maintenance and advice in nursing homes.