Welcome to this week's Focus Weekly bulletin, focusing on our fantastic DEED (Delivering Excellence Every Day) nominations celebrating colleagues nominated in August 2026.
If you are looking for a specific section of the newsletter, click on the grey square in the bottom right of your screen.
What's happened this week...
- Message from Mark - 14 September 2026: read Mark's full message on Focus which includes details of the new staff benefit, Perkbox; latest news on the Mental Health Urgent Assessment Centre in Derby and the 2026 Staff Survey, which opened on Monday.
- The 2026 Staff Survey opened on Monday, 14 September, and the first winners of the Amazon vouchers have been announced. The winner of the £200 voucher is Heidi Josephs, while
the £50 voucher winners include Rebecca Keeler, Emma Buchanan, Nicole Ellis, Linda Johnson, Victoria Swinard, Ali Tuckley, Jodie Cassidy and Sabeeha Anisah. Congratulations everyone! Remember, everyone who completes the Staff Survey has the chance to win in the weekly prize draw.
- Sharing your news: please continue to submit your news on Focus. You can also post on the Closed Staff Facebook group - visit Facebook to join up.
DEED (Delivering Excellence Every Day) - August nominations
Our DEED nominations are divided into five categories that are aligned to our Trust priorities and vision.
Below are the nominations for August that most closely meet the criteria for each category, as described on the DEED nomination page on our website. All nominations will be in the running for a DEED of the month.
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All DEED nominations from July 2026 have been considered for a DEED of the Month award. Congratulations to Ezinne Ignatius, Occupational Therapy Assistant (OTA) at Ward 35 of the Radbourne Unit, who is July’s DEED of the Month winner.
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Don’t forget to use the Trust’s thank you cards to give instant feedback and recognition to each other, outside of the DEED scheme. The design of the cards has recently been updated and copies have recently been sent to teams.
Partnerships
For an individual or team that has gone to significant lengths to involve experts by experience, members of our communities or system partners in shaping their services or their work.
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Emma Smith, Registered Mental Health Nurse, Living Well
I want to thank Emma for making an effort to attend Learning Labs. I appreciate you making the effort to attend.
Thanks also for being a great person to work with. When I was newly-qualified, I worked with Emma and I'm really glad I've had the opportunity to do so again. Emma always checks in and makes sure everything is going okay - thank you for keeping our wellbeing in check, you do more than you realise!
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Isabelle Davies, Mental Health and Wellbeing Practitioner, Living Well
I would like to thank Isabelle for making an effort to attend monthly Learning Labs, she always attends and I'm really appreciative of this. I feel like Issy goes above and beyond every day, always offers to help and support the team where she can, gives really helpful advice and it's obvious how much she cares about patients. She is such a great person to work alongside.
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Samiah Shahid, Ward 35, Radbourne Unit
I am proud to nominate Dr Sam for an exceptional response during a high-pressure medical emergency. Dr Sam stepped forward with remarkable poise, clinical precision, and courage. Dr Sam demonstrated impressive competence, rapidly assessing the patient and working in seamless coordination with our nursing team. This calm demeanour under pressure helped steady the room, ensuring clear communication and prompt decision-making. Dr Sam’s quick thinking and willingness to lead by example were vital to managing the emergency successfully. They are thoroughly deserving of this recognition.
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Alex Unwin, Employment Specialist, Individual Placement and Support
My support has been very good. Alex is friendly, efficient and always gets back to me. She lets me know what support is available and has taken the time to get to know me. Alex has helped me understand my employment goals and what I want for my future. Recently, Alex told me about an employer she had met with. The opportunity appealed to me, and we agreed that it was worth exploring. As a result, I attended an interview, which led to me being offered a job. I am delighted to say that I accepted the offer and have now started in the role. I have begun my training, I am enjoying it, and I am feeling positive about this new opportunity. Alex has encouraged me whenever I have needed support and advice and has encouraged me to keep going and believe in myself.
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Rebecca Fleming, Registered Mental Health Nurse, Living Well
I would like to thank Rebecca for making an effort to attend monthly Learning Labs. She always attends and I'm really appreciative of this. Rebecca is just wonderful to work with, really helpful and knowledgeable in her role. A pleasure to have in the team!
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Emma Proudlove, CAMHS Lead Nurse, Temple House
I would like to recognise Emma for her outstanding support whilst working on a highly complex case. She has consistently gone above and beyond in supporting the young person and the wider network, always putting their needs at the centre of her work. Her ability to think outside the box, troubleshoot challenges, and find creative solutions has been invaluable. She approaches every situation with kindness, compassion, and professionalism, building strong relationships with everyone involved. She is a fantastic nurse whose dedication, caring nature, and commitment to achieving the best outcomes make a real difference and are truly appreciated.
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0-19 Children's Services
The Health Visitors and School Nursing Team recently attending an event at Moorways Sports Village and Water Park in Derby for their 'Play Days'. This involved a lot of planning on their part and working with stakeholders to promote important public health messages. The day was very warm but the enthusiasm showed by the staff was exceptional with one of the feedback detailing: 'The day was amazing and your staff were very friendly, welcoming and professional'. Thank you to Jenny, Clara, Bal, Terrie, Sharon and Henrietta.
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Michelle Simmons, Registered Mental Health Nurse, Living Well
I would like to thank Michelle for making an effort to attend Learning Labs. I appreciate you putting the effort in to attend. Thank you for all you do for the team. Michelle will pick up any assessment and is great to work alongside. She makes a real difference to the day.
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Julia Cook, Senior Health Improvement Nurse
Julia has gone above and beyond to advocate for a vulnerable service user to access a range of health and social care services. Through persistence and being patient-focused, Julia has ensured that the framework of support and services available to her patient are now joined-up, and are collectively accounting for the level of complexity of both physical and mental health associated with her patient's addiction. This has been an outstanding piece of work and has resulted in the patient accessing life-changing and life-saving care.
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Stuart Clensy, Deputy Care Group Operational Manager for Dietetics, Addictions, Physiotherapy, Psychology and Psychological Therapies
Stuart consistently goes above and beyond by providing proactive support, guidance, and encouragement. He helps me and my colleagues see the bigger picture when making service decisions, ensuring that patient care remains the priority while recognising the pressures faced by the team. He actively promotes partnership working, encouraging collaboration with colleagues across services and the wider system to improve outcomes. He demonstrates DHCFT values through his openness, respect, and commitment to supporting staff development. His leadership has helped strengthen the Mental Health Physiotherapy Service, improved joined-up working, and enabled us to deliver the best possible care for our patients.
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Keira Starbrook, Registered Nurse, Oak Ward
Keira, I just wanted to say a massive thank you for all your support throughout my placement. You have been so kind, patient and encouraging, and I really appreciate all the time you have taken to teach me, answer my questions and help me build my confidence. I’ve learnt so much from working alongside you, and I’m genuinely grateful for all the knowledge, advice and encouragement you’ve given me. You’ve made me feel supported and comfortable to learn, and I’ll take so much from my time working with you.
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Oak Ward Team
I just want to say a huge thank you to everyone on the ward for making my placement such a positive and memorable experience. Thank you to everyone who has supported me, encouraged me, taught me new skills and helped me build my confidence throughout my placement. I have learnt so much from each and every one of you, both professionally and personally, and I will take these experiences with me throughout the rest of my nursing journey.
A special thank you to those who took the time to explain things, answer my questions, give me opportunities to develop my skills and believe in me, even when I doubted myself. Your patience, kindness and support have meant more than you probably realise.
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Katharine Hazard, Registered Mental Health Nurse, Living Well
I would like to thank Katharine for making an effort to attend each Learning Lab that we do every month. I appreciate the effort you put in to attend. Katharine is a great member of the team and always steps up to cover duty. She is just great to work with and helps to make her colleagues' day that bit easier.
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Domestic Team, Sycamore Ward and Derwent Unit
The Derwent Unit Domestic Team are amazing. Without these unsung heroes, our environment would not be safe to live or work on. Big shout out to Trina, Lisa and Lisa (Sycamore Ward), Paul Harrison, Lesley (Derwent Unit) and all the other domestic staff across the unit. You are all doing a fantastic job, the unit is always clean and shiny.
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Productive
Showcasing individuals or teams that have found innovative ways to design and deliver services that demonstrate best value for our population, encourage prevention and self-care, and/or generate efficiencies.
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Paula Hathaway, Service Manager, Community Mental Health Team
I would like to recognise that Paula's leadership has had an influential impact on the team's morale and performance. She is very supportive, fair and respectful to everyone in the team. Paula treats all team members equally, she listens to all our different viewpoints and ensures everyone is given the same opportunities and considerations. She has a positive attitude and an approachable nature. With her encouraging leadership style she has had a positive impact on the team. Overall she has created an environment where staff feel valued, motivated and able to perform at their best.
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Maria Barrell, Flow Coordinator, Dovedale Day Hospital
We would like to nomination Maria for a DEED. We have found her to be always helpful when we need it. Also, she really does go out of her way for all of the Admin Team. Maria's support is greatly appreciated within the whole team. She is kind and, no matter how busy she is, she always has spare minutes to help if needed. Maria is such a hard worker but no question is too silly, we all feel we can go to her with any questions. She is a a highly valued member of our team.
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Rio Memmory, Recreational Team Coordinator
I would like to nominate Rio for a DEED for going above and beyond in meeting patients' needs in the absence of a gym instructor at the Carsington Unit. Despite this not being Rio's usual role, she stepped in, ensuring the gym was open for patients which is important for their mental health and recovery, whilst still managing to continue her usual role, always with a smile on her face. Feedback from patients is that she is professional, helpful and that using the gym has helped in their recovery. Thank you Rio - you have really made a difference.
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Kathryn Yates, IT Project Support Officer
Kathryn has made an outstanding contribution to the success of the Multi-Functional Device Cost Improvement Programme through her dedication, detailed analysis, and proactive leadership. She established an accurate baseline of the Trust's printer estate, evidencing a reduction from 110 to 97 leased devices and identifying significant ongoing savings opportunities. Kathryn worked closely with colleagues to support the development of a new printer policy, enabling stronger governance and future efficiencies. Her detailed review of the fleet highlighted additional devices for removal or replacement, creating further cost- saving potential. This has been instrumental in driving this project forward and delivering measurable benefits.
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Jaime Thompson, Administrator, Carsington Unit
Jaime consistently goes above and beyond to ensure everything runs smoothly and efficiently. Her exceptional organisation, professionalism, reliability, and willingness to help make a genuine difference every day. She is always approachable, supportive, and committed to helping colleagues and maintaining a positive environment. Much of her hard work happens behind the scenes, yet it is essential to the success of the whole team. Her dedication, kindness, and outstanding contribution are greatly valued and appreciated, making her truly deserving of this recognition.
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Charlotte Banton, Assistant Psychologist, East Midlands Gambling Harms Service
I wanted to highlight the fantastic work Charlotte completed during her time with the Living Well Central Psychology Team. Despite being with the team for a relatively short period, Charlotte consistently demonstrated an exceptional work ethic and went above and beyond in her role. Her dedication resulted in the successful development and launch of the 'Getting Ready for Change' offer, which is now available for Living Well staff to use. The feedback has been extremely positive, reflecting the quality of Charlotte’s work and the impact she has made. Charlotte should be incredibly proud of this achievement and the lasting contribution.
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Steve Bygrave, Estates Compliance Manager
Steve has shown great diversity recently in his role. There have been a few challenging requests which have come through to Estates and these have been managed efficiently and effectively whilst they haven't necessarily been his remit of work. During this period it has helped the department run smoothly and has benefited the service provided to our patients. Thank you, Steve!
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Hannah Baird, Lead Nurse, Older Adults' Community Care Group
Hannah consistently goes above and beyond to support patients, carers and colleagues, demonstrating compassion, respect and integrity in everything she does. She proactively identifies opportunities for service improvement, helping to enhance processes, patient experience and quality of care. Hannah willingly takes on additional responsibilities, supports colleagues during busy periods and ensures people feel listened to and valued. Her positive attitude, professionalism and commitment to high standards have made a meaningful difference across the service. She embodies our values every day through her actions, dedication and unwavering commitment to improving outcomes for others.
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Patient Focused
For an individual or team that has been highly responsive to the needs and values of our service users, patients, children, families and carers.
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Sydney Briggs, Registered Mental Health Nurse, Kingfisher House
Congratulations to Sydney who has been signed off her preceptorship. She has put all of her efforts into making sure that she gets signed off. Sydney always puts 100% into everything that she does and during this last year, she has been a dedicated named nurse. This has also been recognised by her named patient who thinks she is "the best nurse". Sydney is a valued, and now fully-fledged member of the team and has a fabulous career ahead of her.
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Becky Woolgar, Occupational Therapy (OT) Assistant, Bolsover and Clay Cross Community Mental Health Team
Becky has recently moved across to the nursing team and is completing her nursing associate course. I just want to thank Becky for all the hard work she has done with the team. Truly at times the OT team wouldn't have worked without her. She has always gone above and beyond to build a plan with patients they felt comfy and progressed with. She has always said yes to everything asked of her and always been a huge support for me in this team. I wish her all the luck in her future and can't wait to see her succeed.
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Hannah Baird, Lead Nurse, Dovedale Day Hospital
Hannah is a fantastic Lead Nurse in our Specialist Memory Assessment and Dementia Support Service team, she is always there to provide advice or support to the best of her ability. She gives 100% effort to all the work she completes and is always looking at ways to improve our patient experience. Hannah leads by example, and is a very valued member of the team.
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Bolsover and Clay Cross Community Mental Health Team admin (Linda and Mel)
Both these ladies go above and beyond daily, they are the front line to our patients and are always so polite, helpful and supportive to all the calls they take. Alongside being amazing with the patients, they are the greatest support to the wider team and willing to help at any time. The service would not run without them and their organisational skills. Thank you both of you, you are massively appreciated.
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Stephen Grafton, Dementia Rapid Response Team (DRRT), Scarsdale Hospital, Chesterfield
Stephen goes above and beyond every day to ensure the needs of the patients are met. He is always kind and compassionate in his approach, and is an outstanding example of someone who meets the needs and values of the service users and families. He always listens and offers advice and understanding, and inputs to ensure the patients voices are heard. He is an asset to the DRRT team.
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Lisa Jackson, Healthcare Assistant, Willow Ward, Derwent
Lisa is very patient focused, caring, empathetic and shows good teamwork with her colleagues. She is very patient towards all patients within the ward.
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Connie Wadlow, Ward 36, Radbourne Unit
I would like to nominate Connie in recognition of her outstanding commitment to patient care and the exceptional compassion she demonstrates in her role. I have had the opportunity to observe her managing a wide range of challenging and often complex situations. Regardless of the pressures she faces, she consistently remains calm, professional and positive, providing reassurance to patients and colleagues alike. Her ability to maintain a caring and compassionate approach, even during the busiest shifts, is truly remarkable, especially as a newly qualified nurse. What stands out most is her positive attitude and unwavering dedication.
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Fehintoluwa Oguntande, Ward 35, Radbourne Unit
Fehintoluwa picked up a shift on Dove Ward and was an exceptional support to the team. She demonstrated kindness, compassion, and professionalism in every aspect of her care, going above and beyond for both patients and colleagues. Her knowledge, calm demeanour, and empathetic approach were evident throughout the shift. In particular, the reassurance and understanding she offered to a patient struggling with addiction was compassionate, respectful, and soothing. Fehintoluwa is a tremendous asset to her base ward, Ward 35, and her contribution to Dove Ward was greatly appreciated.
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Natalie Samarczuk, Radbourne Unit/Carsington Unit
Natalie, what can we say? You are truly phenomenal. The support and care you give to patients makes such a difference, and we genuinely don’t know what we’d do without you. Thank you for everything you do - you are so appreciated.
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Lisa Jackson, Healthcare Assistant, Willow Ward, Derwent
Lisa is very interactive with patients, very focused and caring. She takes time to speak to patients and goes out of her way to ensure patients are okay. She takes time when taking patients out, is very approachable and lovely to be around.
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Hifza Sameen, Team Admin, Dovedale Day Hospital
Hifza is a highly valued member of the admin team, she is hard working and goes above and beyond. Since joining our admin team, she has fitted in really well, she is a ray of light to work with, nothing is too much trouble. Hifza has a great work ethic and shows great compassion and care when speaking with patients on the phone. Anything she is shown she picks up really quickly. She is highly respected by all of the team.
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Ward 35, Radbourne Unit
The Ward 35 team has demonstrated exceptional teamwork, resilience and compassion during a period of significant challenge. In recent weeks, staff have managed multiple incidents. Working collaboratively with the bleep holders and Ward 36 team, they have proactively identified and mitigated risks, supported staff wellbeing, and ensured high standards of patient care. Their professionalism, dedication and commitment to one another embody the Trust's values and have made a meaningful difference to both patients and colleagues. A huge thank you to everyone for their ongoing hard work.
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Dr Samiah Shahid and Nurse Consultant Hannah Burton, Ward 35, Radbourne Unit
Dr Samiah and Hannah have consistently gone above and beyond in demonstrating exceptional values on Ward 35, Radbourne Unit. During medical emergencies, both remained calm, professional and decisive, providing clear leadership and direction to the nursing team. They have shown outstanding commitment to patient care through effective care planning and discharge coordination. Dr Samiah has quickly integrated into the ward team and become a valued member. Hannah continually exceeds expectations in her role, overseeing 21 patients while providing excellent mentorship and support to colleagues, making a significant positive impact on both staff and patient care.
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Molly Taylor, Registered Nurse, The Beeches
Molly is a kind, caring, compassionate nurse who puts all of our mums and babies first. She makes sure everyone needs are met including those of the staff. Molly ensures that all our mums and babies get the best care. Molly always goes above and beyond to ensure the mum and babies feel safe on the ward, well cared for and always makes time for an extra one to one with mum and families when they need it most. The Beeches is very lucky to have Molly. Thank you for all that you do.
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Lead Nurses Molly Till, Emily Rutherford-Phipps, Cara Wilson (and the rest of the Ward 35 team)
I would like to nominate Lead Nurses Molly, Emily, Cara and the rest of the Ward 35 team for their exceptional handling of a recent medical emergency. Their swift, calm, and professional response was crucial in ensuring the best possible outcome for the patient. They coordinated staff efficiently, maintained composure under pressure, and applied their clinical skills with precision. These individuals consistently go above and beyond, but their actions during this emergency truly highlighted their dedication, competence, and readiness. They are a credit to our healthcare team, and I wholeheartedly recommend them for this recognition.
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Sharna Higgins, Dove Ward, Carsington Unit
Once in a while you come across a brilliant and caring person, who is so full of compassion and passion for the ladies we work with and in her role. Sharna is this person. A blessing to work alongside, dedicated and goes above her role. Sharna shows this is not just a job but a vocation. Thank you so much. You give us all courage to carry on.
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Lisa Jackson, Healthcare Assistant, Willow Ward, Derwent
Lisa is very approachable, understanding and a very hard worker.
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People
Recognising individuals or teams that have created a positive culture and sense of belonging in their service or their workplace.
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Katy Findlay, Registered Mental Health Nurse, Bluebell Ward
Katy is an incredible senior nurse who consistently demonstrates exceptional leadership skills. She is approachable, caring, and always willing to support and help anyone who may need it. Katy leads by example, creating a positive and supportive environment for both patients and colleagues. Her knowledge, compassion, and commitment make her an invaluable member of the team, and she is a fantastic role model for those around her.
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Catrin Holmes, Registered Mental Health Nurse, Bluebell Ward
Catrin is a fantastic senior nurse who is always willing to support both patients and colleagues. She is friendly, approachable, and kind, creating a positive and welcoming atmosphere on the ward. Catrin is able to manage busy and challenging shifts effectively while remaining calm and supportive. She is always happy to help wherever needed and is a valued member of the team.
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Jephin Mathew, Registered Nurse, Cubley Court
Jephin started in the Trust as a Nursing Assistant, he then completed his Band 5 training and now has completed his Preceptorship. He has worked so hard, he's professional and always prioritises the patient and we welcome him as a fully fledged member of our team.
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Lisa-Anne Mack, Clinical Lead Manager, 136 Operational Team manager, Derwent Unit
Lisa-Anne is one of the best managers and clinical leads I have had the opportunity to work with as part of a team. She consistently goes above and beyond in supporting both staff and patients. She leads with compassion, professionalism, and integrity, creating a positive and inclusive working environment. Despite ongoing staffing pressures and operational challenges, she remains approachable, supportive, and responsive to staff needs. She actively listens, advocates for her team, and recognises individual contributions, helping staff feel valued and motivated. Her commitment to high-quality patient care, staff wellbeing, and effective leadership demonstrates the Trust's values every day.
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Nat Nickson, Registered Nurse Associate, Bluebell Ward
Nat is a real asset to the ward and consistently goes above and beyond for both our patients and the wider team. She always approaches her work with a positive attitude and is more than happy to support and help others whenever needed. During busy shifts, Nat remains hardworking, dedicated, and committed to providing the best possible care. We are very lucky to have Nat as part of our team, and her hard work and positive contribution are greatly appreciated.
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Tracey Shaw, Registered Mental Health Nurse, Bluebell Ward
Tracey is an incredible nurse who consistently approaches her work with professionalism and a positive, productive attitude. She is able to manage challenging and difficult situations with calmness and confidence, always remaining focused on providing the best possible care for her patients. Tracey works incredibly hard and is a dedicated member of the team. Her commitment, compassion, and high standard of care are greatly valued.
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North Memory Assessment Admin Team
We would like to thank the North Admin Team, Kelly, Jill and Carole, in recognition of their support to the South Admin Team. We are all one service and work together to help each other out, but wanted to say a massive thank you for their help and support in the past few weeks when south admin have been short of people working in the office, especially on very busy Fridays. You have all constantly asked if need help and support and have made a difference. Thank you ladies, you are the best.
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Becky Wilson, Registered Mental Health Nurse, Bluebell Ward
Becky is a fantastic nurse who consistently puts her patients at the heart of everything she does. She has a calm and reassuring manner that makes patients feel comfortable, safe, and at ease. Becky always takes the time to listen to her patients and ensure they feel valued and supported. She is committed to providing an outstanding standard of care and consistently goes above and beyond to make a positive difference to her patients’ experience.
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Jorja Herbert, Registered Mental Health Nurse, Bluebell Ward
Jorja is a dedicated and hardworking nurse who consistently puts her patients at the heart of everything she does. She has a caring and compassionate approach, making patients feel safe, valued, and listened to. Jorja works effectively and efficiently, even during busy shifts, and is always willing to support those around her. She is a fantastic team player and a valued member of the team.
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Holly Beckett, Registered Mental Health Nurse, Bluebell Ward
Holly is an incredibly hardworking and dedicated nurse. Although she is still a preceptor, her work ethic, professionalism, and confidence would suggest she has been qualified for many years. She consistently demonstrates maturity and competence in her practice and is able to manage the ward effectively, even during challenging and busy shifts. Holly is a valued member of the team, and her commitment and ability are truly impressive.
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Viral Popat, Senior Occupational Therapist (OT), Bluebell Ward
Viral is a brilliant role model on Bluebell Ward, consistently demonstrating high-quality Occupational Therapy care and interventions for patients. She always shows genuine care and interest in her colleagues, proactively checking in with others when she notices they might be having a hard time. Furthermore, Viral promotes a warm and welcoming environment within the OT team. As a supervisor, she is exceptionally supportive and acts as a strong advocate both for her team members and for the wider OT service on the ward. Thank you, Viral for making the OT team on Bluebell such as great place to work.
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Zoie Waddingham, Physiotherapy Associate, Mental Health Physiotherapy
The Mental Health Physiotherapy Team would like to say a big thank you to Zoie for everything she does for the team. We would be lost without her. Zoie is kind, considerate and more than helpful. In her role she covers for physios, assistants and admin in their absence, helps with discharge planning, ensures audits are completed and supports the physio assistants via formal supervision and informally every day. She always checks in on staff wellbeing and highlights concerns if she has them. Keep being you Zoie - we appreciate you more than you know.
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Amanda Bexon, Team Administrator, Mental Health Physiotherapy
The Mental Health Physiotherapy Team would like to nominate Amanda for a DEED to let her know how much we appreciate her. Amanda works tirelessly in keeping us all in check, providing efficient admin support and so much more! As the only admin (part time) for a large team that is no small feat. She is organised, helpful and always kind and courteous. Nothing is too much trouble for Amanda and she goes above and beyond to help where she can. Amanda - you are fabulous and we would be utterly lost without you. Thank you.
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Jo Bowden, Lead Nurse, Robin Ward
Jo has been an outstanding source of support to staff throughout a difficult time on Carsington Unit. She has consistently gone above and beyond her role, demonstrating unwavering commitment to both patients and colleagues. Jo has regularly covered the unit bleep, ensuring the unit continued to function safely and effectively. Her dedication, flexibility and willingness to put the needs of the service first have been invaluable. Throughout this period, Jo has provided stability, leadership and support for staff and patients alike. Her efforts have made a significant difference and she truly deserves recognition for her exceptional commitment and contribution.
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Lucy Follon, Receptionist/Admin, Rivermead
Lucy is relatively new to her role, and all of my interactions with her have been over the telephone. She is consistently bright, positive and approachable, and it's impossible not to smile when speaking with her. She quickly recognises my number when I call and deals with every request efficiently, accurately and with genuine professionalism. It may seem like a small thing, but knowing that I can rely on her completely makes my job significantly easier. She is a real asset to the team.
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High Peak Living Well Community Mental Health Team (CMHT)
The High Peak Living Well CMHT has faced challenges over the last few years and has recently moved to a temporary base with a fast turnaround. The team are not just colleagues but genuine friends who support each other through challenges at work and in their personal lives. They find moments of humour on the even the most challenging days.
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Hamza Nsubuga, Registered Mental Health Nurse, Carsington Unit
Hamza has gone above and beyond throughout my placement, making me and other students feel welcomed, supported and valued from day one. He is approachable, knowledgeable and always willing to take time to teach, offer constructive feedback and create meaningful learning opportunities. What makes Hamza truly exceptional is the genuine care he shows towards both students and patients. He regularly checks on our wellbeing, not just our academic progress, while providing outstanding, compassionate one to one patient care. His kindness, patience, professionalism and commitment to person- centred care have significantly strengthened my confidence and learning. He truly embodies the values of the NHS.
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Richard Tomlinson, Fire Safety Advisor
I would like to recognise Richard Tomlinson for consistently being helpful, approachable, and supportive. He always takes the time to listen carefully to any concerns and provides thoughtful advice and assistance. His friendly manner and willingness to help others makes him a valued colleague and a pleasure to work with. Thank you.
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Claire McNicol, Senior Occupational Therapist, Carsington Unit
Claire is an outstanding Occupational Therapist and an incredibly supportive clinical supervisor. She consistently demonstrates compassion, patience, professionalism, and a genuine commitment to helping others develop and succeed. Her guidance and encouragement have helped me build confidence in my clinical practice, while her knowledge and experience provide an invaluable source of support. Claire creates a positive learning environment where questions are welcomed and growth is encouraged. She leads by example and always takes the time to listen, teach, and support others. Her dedication and impact make her truly deserving of this recognition.
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Night Coordinator, Debbie Rowen and Nursing Assistant, Nekpen 'Nikki' Obi-Ifiona, Radbourne Unit
Thank you to Debbie and Nikki for going above and beyond during a recent challenging situation. Although the response involved the support of the wider team, Debbie and Nikki played a particularly significant role in managing a complex situation.
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Paul Harrison, Hotel Services Assistant, Derwent Unit
Paul went above and beyond in the way he carried out his work, showing an exceptional level of care, thoroughness and attention to detail. He took real pride in ensuring everything was completed to a high standard, including the small details. His approach demonstrated how much he cared about the quality of his work and the environment he was creating for others. Alongside this, Paul was friendly, welcoming and approachable, creating a positive atmosphere for those around him. His dedication and positive attitude made a real difference and this was greatly appreciated.
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Medical Secretaries, St Andrew's House
Since starting at St Andrew's House I have been welcomed by the Medical Secretaries. They have been a massive support while I have been going through some difficult times. They are the best team I could wish to work with and I cannot thank them all enough.
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Sarah Scattergood, Admin and Secretarial Support Manager, Bayheath House
Sarah has been a big support for me over the last year during a difficult time. She always goes above and beyond to support everyone. It doesn't matter how busy she is, she is always there. She treats everyone as an individual and not a number. I cannot thank her enough for all her support, she has always been there through the good and bad. She goes above and beyond for all.
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Hope and Resilience Hub Team, Occupational Therapy Team
During my placement at the Radbourne Unit I spent a day with the Occupational Therapy Team. The whole team made me feel very welcome throughout the day and were supportive of my learning; sharing their knowledge and expertise about their role within a multidisciplinary team. The insight gave me valuable knowledge and experience of the important role therapeutic interventions play in a patient's wellbeing and recovery. As a Mental Health Nursing Student, I would recommend other students to take the opportunity to spend the day with the team. Big thank you to the team.
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Angela Wilkinson, Rebecca Speed, Marie Heappy, Admin support at Chesterfield and Killamarsh Occupational Therapists
All three ladies have been supporting Bolsover Older Adults CMHT for three months as well as doing their own jobs The Bolsover team would like the Trust to recognise these ladies for their hard work and commitment They all have been responsive, present and supported staff with calls, contacts, SystmOne referrals and all admin duties. The Bolsover team would not have managed without them.
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Positive difference
Service user / carer / external nominations – for nominations received from service users, carers or external organisations celebrating individual Trust colleagues or Trust teams that have made a positive difference.
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Cheryl Shepherd, Lead Nurse, Hartington Unit
During the discharge of a patient from a period of care within crisis team, both the patient and their carer spoke extremely highly of the care delivered by Cheryl. They described that during one of the worst times in their lives, Cheryl was a consistent source of great support. They described Cheryl as highly knowledgeable and calm, which made them feel confident in the care they were receiving. They discussed that as well as being very capable, they found her approachable and easy to talk to, and this has made all the difference to them.
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Dr Liz Brooks, Clinical Psychologist, Dale Bank View
Liz puts extra care into quality and making sure people feel heard and supported - I feel very supported under Liz's care. I have found a Psychologist I feel I can open up to about problems I have. She is polite, caring, kind and has a good heart.
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Samantha Ashcroft, Peer Support Worker, Audrey House
I would like to nominate Sam for a DEED. Sam was always happy to take me for a “walk and talk” and hear me out about things playing on my mind. I found being on the ward extremely overwhelming due to my autism and ADHD, so it was welcome break to get out into the fresh air and have a laugh! It made me feel a lot less alone. Sam and her colleague Abdul always put on activities for us and they were always very patient and understanding when my attention span waned.
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Specialist Memory Assessment and Dementia Support Service, Dovedale Day Hospital
My wife and I have had a brilliant experience with the Specialist Memory Assessment and Dementia Support Service. All of the staff have been extremely helpful and informative from start to finish. A big thank you to them all.
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Sarah Gillow, Community Psychiatric Nurse, Killamarsh Clinic
Thanks for everything you have done for us. In a journey that can feel isolating, you have helped us feels seen, supported and understood. Thank you for being our ally and advocating for us when we needed it the most.
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Specialist Memory Assessment and Dementia Support Service, Dovedale Day Hospital
The daughter of a patient nominated the Specialist Memory Assessment and Dementia Support Service for providing a fantastic service to her and her mother, fulfilling all promises and referred her mother to the Living Well Programme. She said her mother was shown compassion and care from the start and that the team should be recognised for their hard work.
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Positive difference - EQUAL
EQUAL Forum member nominations
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Cara Haycock, Nurse Associate, Snowdrop Ward
May we please thank and commend Cara Haylock for her help in getting the Bright Ideas log rolling at Snowdrop Ward in Chesterfield. Every time we have met Cara she has always been helpful, friendly and eager to learn about the many facets of our Trust. Cara is the first person from Snowdrop Ward to whom we have had the opportunity to show our appreciation towards. Thank you and well done Cara.
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Helen Bailey, Dialectical Behaviour Therapist, Kingsway
EQUAL is a Lived Life Experience Forum, which engages with many people with lived life experience of poor mental health. Many of us know that recovery can be a slow and difficult process. Although we know we may not gain the life we wished for, at some point we realise we can have a life that is liveable. So when we come across a person who helps us reach that point we like to show our appreciation, Helen Bailey is such as person. For your knowledge, level of respect, patient care and inclusion - very well done and thank you Helen.
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Operational Management - PA Team
As a small resource EQUAL relies heavily on the support of our colleagues. Our Operational Management PA Team have helped us many times, sharing both their knowledge and resources, we may please commend and thank, Jenny Wooley, Kelly Woodward, Raj Nair, Catherine Warwick, Laura Ride, Laura Morrison, Kate Crossland, Andrea Venner, and Lydia Davison. Thank you, and well done everyone.
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Lee Ryan Doyle, Director of Operations
May we please once again thank and commend Lee Ryan-Doyle. We have previously shown appreciation for Lee's community engagement work, alongside Vikki Ashton-Taylor. On this occasion may we give our thanks for his willingness to share his massive knowledge. Well done and thank you again, Lee.
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List of useful Focus links: the quick links to systems page on Focus, Freedom to Speak Up page on Focus, Staff Room pages on Focus, our staff network groups and all news items.
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