New Neonatal Unit colleague and soon to be Nursing Associate, James Morley, is the winner of the School of Human and Health Sciences, Level 5 Apprentice of the Year, presented to him last week by the University of Huddersfield’s Vice Chancellor, Professor Bob Cryan. 

James was nominated by Senior Clinical Nurse Educator from the University, Sam Wood, and was chosen from 150 nominations. Here is some of what she wrote:

“James continuously receives positive feedback on how he brings happiness to patients at a time where normal life has been disrupted and also boosts the morale of staff with his joyous energy.

“During a recent placement at a hospice, James went above and beyond to really make a difference to a patient in his care, taking his responsibility for their wellbeing to the next level. The patient was receiving end of life care and their admission fell over a date where they were supposed to be going to see Will Mellor and Ralf Little in their tour "2 pints with Will and Ralf". James took it upon himself to make all the arrangements to ensure the patient could still attend, ringing the theatre to ensure there was suitable access and that the patient could be supported in their attendance. James arranged a special meet and greet with Will and Ralf for the patient and received a thank you video back from the pair of them for James making it possible for the patient to attend.

“None of this was expected or required of James but is an example of how he takes person-centred care seriously. Sometimes it’s the small acts that can have the greatest impact.”

James said: “I was very overwhelmed and shocked when I got the email. It even made me shed a tear of happiness. This means the world to me, it really does.”

Matron for Workforce Development, Vicki Power, added: “I hear only good things about James. He has been an outstanding apprentice and CHFT is fortunate to have someone of his compassion, dedication and professional maturity within our workforce. His commitment to patient care, his motivation to learn, and the standard at which he consistently performs set him apart as a true exemplar of the Nursing Associate pathway. I have no doubt that he is only at the beginning of a remarkable career.”

Congratulations also to Student Nursing Associate, Charlaine (Charlie) Sykes, who was runner-up. Charlie works within the Urology Investigation Unit and was nominated by her Ward Manager, Sophie Mansfield-Holbrook.