Published at 16:08, Monday, 01 October 2012

A YOUNG nurse who is already helping her colleagues take strides along their own career paths could receive an award in recognition of her hard work.

GEMMA STEEL

Sister Gemma Steel, who comes from Ulverston, is rapidly rising through the ranks as a gynaecology and breast nurse on ward 16 at the Royal Lancaster Infirmary.

The 26-year-old is doing overseas work in Melbourne, Australia, to enhance her nursing skills and knowledge of women’s health.

She has been nominated for Nurse of the Year, sponsored by Osprey Communications, in the University Hospitals of Morecambe Bay NHS Foundation Trust’s first Health Heroes awards.

Student nurse, Leah Swarbrick, put forward her mentor for the accolade.

She said: “Gemma is quite simply a brilliant nurse.

“She has mentored me as a student from the first year to the final placement of my nursing training – so I have had the privilege of watching her work and witnessing her dedication at first hand.

“Gemma has committed herself to developing her knowledge and interest in breast care patients and helped to improve the service provided to women undergoing stressful breast surgery.

“She has taken a lead role in helping to introduce new procedures and improve working practices.

“Gemma is a kind, caring, compassionate nurse and the most lovely mentor and friend.”

Today is the last day for nominations for the Health Heroes Awards.

The public is being urged to make sure those hospital staff who have gone the extra mile for them do not miss out on the chance of an award.

There are 12 other categories – Innovation, Doctor of the Year, Nurse of the Year, Midwife of the Year, Team of the Year, Special Achievement, Patient Safety, Behind the Scenes, Fundraiser of the Year, Volunteer of the Year, Registered professional of the Year, Student/Trainee of the Year and the Supporting the Organisation.

Three finalists from each category will be invited to an awards ceremony at the Castle Green Hotel in Kendal on Friday November 16.

To nominate, visit the website www.uhmb.nhs.uk.

Copies of the application pack can also be requested by calling 01539 716675 or by emailing louise.fleming@mbht.nhs.uk.

Published by http://www.nwemail.co.uk