Published on: 16 October 2026
In the run-up to Derbyshire Healthcare NHS Foundation Trust’s Honouring Exceptional and Really Terrific Staff (HEARTS) Awards 2026, the Trust will be spotlighting an inspiring person, team or service from each award category whose work is making a positive difference.
This spotlight recognises Nina Wiggins from the Drugs and Alcohol Care Team (D-ACT), who has been nominated in the Outstanding Care and Compassion Award category for the kindness and practical support she provides to patients and colleagues.
Nina was nominated because she regularly goes beyond the expectations of her role to help people feel comfortable, valued and cared for during their time on the ward. Her nomination describes the thoughtful practical steps she takes to support patients, including collecting newspapers and providing reading glasses so people have something to read.
She also helps patients access clothes and personal care products when they need them. These gestures, alongside the kindness and respect she shows in every interaction, help preserve people’s dignity and make a meaningful difference during difficult circumstances.
Nina’s compassion extends to colleagues as well as patients. She is recognised for bringing positivity to the workplace, supporting those around her and helping put a smile on people’s faces.
Kaylie Finney, Substance Misuse Specialist Nurse, who nominated Nina, said: “Nina consistently goes above and beyond for our patients. She shows kindness and compassion to patients and staff alike and always puts a smile on everyone’s face. Her thoughtful actions, from collecting newspapers to helping patients with clothes and personal care products, make a real difference. She is a credit to the Trust and thoroughly deserves this recognition.”
Nina’s story reflects the purpose of the Outstanding Care and Compassion Award, which recognises an individual who goes the extra mile to ensure their service is caring and compassionate and makes a difference to patients, service users, carers and colleagues.
Further HEARTS Awards 2026 spotlights will be shared in the lead-up to the awards, celebrating individuals and teams across each category who embody the Trust’s values and make a difference to the people and communities they support.
The awards will be presented at a ceremony on 21 October. The awards are being sponsored by Arden Partnership, Browne Jacobson, Hill Dickinson, LIO, Patchwork Health and Thalamos.
