Published on: 23 July 2026
A Derbyshire Healthcare NHS Foundation Trust nurse has marked an incredible 40+ years of service, continuing a proud family tradition of caring for others.
Audrey Williamson, whose mum, aunties and three older sisters all worked as nurses, was presented with her long service award by Chief Executive at the Trust, Mark Powell, 40+ years after first stepping onto the wards.
“Nursing has changed so much in my time,” she said. “When I first started, we had long term patients who were with us for a long time, and we were like their family. We would take them on day trips to Blackpool, on boat trips and even on holidays.
“Handovers used to be a quick 10 minutes in the office to write a few notes and go, but now we are so much more thorough with our records.”
Audrey’s four decades long career has included roles as a community psychiatric nurse and research nurse. She is now Lead Research Nurse, supporting patients across the Trust to take part in research studies and trials.
“Most of my roles have been on the wards with forensic patients,” she said. “Then I went into the community and worked in outreach with people who were difficult to engage.
“Then I was ready for something different, saw the advert for research and thought – I don’t know much about research and would like to learn more, so I applied.
“I’ve loved working in research. It’s lovely still having patient contact and being able to offer opportunities to them to potentially support and have a say in future treatments.”
In her spare time, Audrey loves doing up houses with a friend, rolling up her sleeves and getting stuck in with much of the hard graft, as well as spending time with her beloved mum, who will be 95 next month.
The family’s caring tradition looks set to continue too, with Audrey’s older daughter working as a social worker and her younger daughter working in care and considering nursing training.
Gemma Harrison, Research Clinical Lead, said: “Over 40 years in mental health nursing - always with a bright smile, a cheerful disposition, and a sense of humour that could lighten even the toughest of days. Audrey’s calm and reassuring presence has brought comfort and confidence to countless patients and colleagues alike. Never one to take the easy route, her commitment, compassion, and determination have inspired everyone fortunate enough to receive her care or work alongside her. The Clinical Research Team feel incredibly lucky to call her our colleague.
“Well done, Audrey, on an amazing 40 years of service, and thank you for everything you have given to the profession and to those around you.”
