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Healthcare assistant, Jade Taylor, has been named ‘Rising Star of the Year‘ in the region’s annual Health Care Support Worker Awards.

Jade, who joined the main outpatient team at Newcastle’s Freeman Hospital in 2018, was nominated by Sister Claire Nixon who describes Jade as having an incredibly positive attitude, always carefully and courageously seeking and following advice in order to overcome whatever problem she may encounter.

“This”, says Claire, “has shown internal strength and a resilience she was unaware of.”

The Rising Star category sought nominations for people who are passionate about learning new skills and career progression.

Claire nominated Jade in recognition of her hard work and commitment towards learning many new competencies during a short period of time, whilst learning how to work in a large multi-disciplinary team, as part of a large, complex NHS organisation.

“When Jade joined the team in outpatients three years ago, she was completely new to health care with little confidence in her own ability,” explains Claire. “However, it soon became evident how much she cares for people, with a ‘can-do’ attitude and willingness to help that shone through.”

“She completed her Maths and English qualifications in her own time to ensure she was eligible to apply for a Healthcare Apprentice role, and she has since become a full time Healthcare Assistant so she’s been on a steep learning trajectory.”

Claire adds, “Jade is a much valued member of the team and has the potential to continue her learning at pace. I am confident she will be able to train as a registered nurse in the future.”

Claire describes how, despite being daunted by the prospect of acquiring and practising new skills, Jade completed all competencies asked of her with a smile, and soon become part of the core team rotating to outreach sites at Cramlington and Benfield Park. Doing so enabled her to learn a whole new set of skills and competencies.

“Jade successfully carried out phlebotomy training and became so proficient in taking bloods that we asked her to support the staff antibody testing programme,” says Claire.

“She was pretty anxious at first but succeeded, and can quite rightly feel very proud of the great contribution she has made.”

Jade was presented with her Rising Staff award by Ian Joy, Deputy Chief Nurse. “I was delighted to hear from Jade’s team and to read through her nomination”, says Ian.

“It’s clear just how well she builds a rapport with patients, having a caring and compassionate attitude, and also how she has taken steps to develop herself in her role.

“It’s fantastic to see how all her hard work has subsequently led to her developing further in the department. I’m looking forward to seeing her career in the Trust blossom in years to come and she very much deserves this fantastic award.”