Nominate your health heroes now

Aug 3 2012 by Lynn Jolly, Paisley Daily Express

HEALTH heroes who go above and beyond the call of duty are to be honoured with special awards.

And Paisley Daily Express readers have been invited to get involved by nominating a nurse, doctor or volunteer who has made their life that bit easier.

The Scottish Health Awards 2012 aim to unearth the top health workers and teams across NHS Greater Glasgow and Clyde.

These celebrate loyal staff from every area of healthcare – from therapists and GPs to specialist carers and cleaners who work tirelessly behind the scenes.

This year, there are a number of new categories, including the Integrated Care for Older People Award, the Quality Champion of the Year and the Leading for Quality Award.

The winners will be presented with their awards at a prestigious ceremony in Edinburgh on Thursday, November 8.

Deputy First Minister Nicola Sturgeon said: “All of us will know someone special who works in NHS Scotland – someone who goes that extra mile to provide the very best quality healthcare to the people of Scotland.

“These awards provide us with the opportunity to recognise those dedicated and loyal staff working across the health service and I would encourage you to take this chance to nominate that member of staff for an award.”

Past winners include the Renfrewshire Intensive Home Treatment team, based at Dykebar Hospital in Paisley, who picked up the Mental Health Care Award in 2010.

The team provide intensive care in patients’ homes, avoiding the need to be admitted to hospital.

They were nominated by a patient for the help and support provided during a difficult period in their life.

Andrew Robertson, chairman of NHS Greater Glasgow and Clyde, said: “The Scottish Health Awards are an excellent opportunity to recognise the hard work and dedication of our staff to patients.

“I am always impressed by the high level of care and commitment our staff show to patients every day and it is always appreciated when people take the time to consider them for these prestigious awards.”

lTo nominate your healthcare hero, visit www.scottishhealthawards.com

The closing date for nominations is Monday, September 10.