Published on: 14 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 Alison ‘Ali’ Clarke, a Perinatal Nursery Nurse in Derbyshire Healthcare’s Perinatal Mental Health Team, who has been nominated in the Patient Focus Award category for the lasting difference she makes to women, babies and families. The team offer support to mothers for moderate and severe mental ill health from the 12th week of pregnancy until a child is two years old.
Ali was nominated by a colleague with lived experience for the way she brings kindness, patience, compassion and expertise to every aspect of her work. She was praised for taking time to understand each person’s circumstances and creates a safe, supportive space where families feel listened to and never judged.
Through her one-to-one work, Ali provides individualised support during what can be an especially vulnerable time. She meets families where they are, offering reassurance, practical help and encouragement while consistently treating people with dignity and respect.
Her impact also extends beyond individual appointments. Ali advocates for the mums and families she supports, speaks up when their needs could be better understood or met, and brings their voices and experiences into the wider service so that patient perspectives remain central to care.
Ali also leads and facilitates groups where mothers can connect with others who may understand their experiences. These sessions help build community, reduce isolation and create a sense of belonging.
Kelia O’Brien, Lived Experience Lead for the Living Well Programme Team, who nominated Ali, said: “Ali consistently goes above and beyond to make a genuine and lasting difference to women, babies and families. She sees the person behind the difficulties they are experiencing and creates spaces where people feel safe, heard and never judged. Her kindness has a ripple effect, and she has changed the experience of care for many women and children.”
Ali’s story reflects the purpose of the Patient Focus Award, which recognises a person or team that is respectful of and responsive to the needs and values of service users, patients, children, families and carers, resulting in positive experiences and outcomes. 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 on 21 October. The awards are being sponsored by Arden Partnership, Browne Jacobson, Hill Dickinson, LIO, Patchwork and Thalamos.
