Star Award finalists 2025

Ward 39 Healthcare Assistants

York

The healthcare assistants on Ward 39 were nominated for consistently going above and beyond to provide outstanding care.

They build strong, caring relationships with patients and families, treating each person with compassion and dignity. From helping a patient attend their daughter’s wedding to learning sign language to support a deaf patient, their kindness shines through.

They tailor care to patients’ routines, support social activities, and work closely with therapists to aid recovery.

Their dedication creates a warm, home-like environment. Patients and families regularly praise their efforts, and the nursing team is deeply grateful for their hard work and commitment every day.

Michaela Quinn

Bridlington

Michaela consistently lives and breathes our Trust Values, always going the extra mile for both patients and colleagues. Her kindness, compassion, and dedication shine through in everything she does.

A recent example truly captures her selflessness. A patient had travelled from Filey to Bridlington Hospital twice to collect their hearing aid, only to find it wasn’t yet ready. Although hearing aids aren’t part of the Outpatients Admin Team’s remit, Michaela took it upon herself to make things right.

On a Friday evening, in her own time, she personally drove to the patient’s home to deliver the hearing aid, just so they wouldn’t be without it over the weekend. The patient was deeply grateful, and it meant so much to them to be heard, cared for, and supported in this way.

Michaela didn’t do it for recognition - she did it because she genuinely cares. Her act of kindness is just one example of the many quiet, thoughtful things she does every day. She is a true credit to the team and the Trust.

Kristie Braviner, Adele Bayes-Warley, and Helen Jennison

Scarborough

Kristie, Adele, and Helen showed compassion, care, confidence, and common sense while caring for a critical and frail patient with a complex respiratory condition on Beech Ward. This patient was due to be discharged, but due to difficulties managing their oxygen, the discharge was delayed.

Despite the requirement to do their observations regularly, they all recognised the negative impact this was having on both the patient and their partner. They highlighted this to the medical team who appropriately agreed and changed the frequency. They also recognised quickly the signs of hypercapnia, which is not easily recognised by doing observations. Instead, it takes knowing the patient, experience, and confidence.

They also highlighted this to the medical team. On acknowledging this, the medical team had a conversation with the patient and partner, explaining the observation and subsequent blood gas. The agreement was to continue to aim for discharge, to monitor and keep the patient comfortable, but to be aware that the patient remains critical and may die. The patient subsequently did die peacefully in their sleep in the early hours of the next morning.

Adele and Helen, as a band 2 and 3, have shown, and always show, how their experience and knowledge of their patient goes well above any grading number they may have. They are a credit to the ward, and they should be proud of their actions, as we are of them. This also demonstrates how well the clinical team and ward team work together, respect each other, and listen when their unified goal is to care for the patient and their family.

We’re incredibly proud of Kristie, Adele and Helen.

Samantha Kelly

Selby

Samantha was nominated by a patient who came to hospital after being attacked by their ex-partner.

The police were not yet involved, but Samantha made the patient feel safe, cared for, and never judged. She treated their injuries with compassion and offered kind, practical advice.

Recognising the seriousness of the situation, Samantha contacted the police and gave a statement on the patient’s behalf. The patient said this brave act may have stopped things from getting worse.

They described her as “the lady who saved me” and said they will never forget the care, support and strength Samantha gave them.

Leighton Walker

York

Leighton was nominated by a patient for the outstanding professionalism, empathy, and care he showed to a patient experiencing an ectopic pregnancy.

The patient said: “After a distressing past experience, I was anxious when facing another ectopic pregnancy. Mr Walker was calm, compassionate, and explained everything clearly, taking time to answer all my questions.

“He followed up personally after surgery, kept me fully informed during ongoing complications, and treated me with kindness and respect throughout. His support made a deeply emotional time more bearable.

“I truly felt heard, understood, and safe in his care. Mr Walker went above and beyond, and I’m incredibly grateful.”

Security Team

York

When a patient unexpectedly went into labour in the hospital car park, the security team responded instantly.

They alerted medical staff, secured the area, and offered calm, reassuring support to the patient and their family. Their quick thinking, clear communication, and professionalism ensured the patient was safe and the situation was under control.

Thanks to their actions, both mum and baby received timely care and were safely transferred into the hospital. Their efforts not only exemplified exceptional teamwork, but also showed true compassion beyond the call of duty

Srinivas Chintapatla

York

Mr Chintapatla was nominated by a patient whose life was transformed following complex hernia surgery. The patient described being in despair before meeting Mr Chintapatla, who saw them on a Saturday evening, planned meticulously, and led a successful operation within a week.

His warmth, energy and personal attention, along with the dedication of his “wonderful team” brought the patient back to life.

They now live independently, crediting not just Mr Chintapatla’s expertise, but also his exceptional leadership and human connection, which make him, and his team, truly deserving of this recognition.

Nicola Wilson

York

Nicola recently took a phone call from a patient who was suffering from severe anxiety about an upcoming appointment. She ended up meeting the patient on arrival at the hospital and escorting them to the department where their appointment was to take place.

Since then, Nicola has continued to support this patient with their various appointments within our department and others, including ED and radiology, giving them mental and emotional support.

During a recent inpatient stay, Nicola visited the patient regularly throughout her working day, again offering support. She also left her contact information with the ward staff, volunteering to be contacted at any point if the patient became stressed about their situation.

Nicola has acted as a support system for this patient, working with the medical professionals looking after them by explaining things more clearly, reenforcing what has been said by the healthcare professionals, and giving them reassurance.

Unfortunately, the prognosis for this patient is not looking good. They are receiving treatment, and Nicola has agreed to attend further appointments with them as support.

Lucy Hyde

York

Lucy demonstrated extraordinary dedication and compassion when caring for a recent patient who was deaf.

Faced with a communication barrier and knowing that no one on the ward was fluent in British Sign Language (BSL), Lucy took it upon herself to learn basic BSL during her own lunch breaks, purely so she could communicate directly with the patient.

This small act of kindness had a huge impact. The patient was visibly moved that someone had taken the time to make them feel seen, heard, and respected. It brought them comfort, joy, and a greater sense of dignity during their care.

This is just one example of the way Lucy consistently goes above and beyond in her role. In the words of a colleague: "She is a deeply valued member of the team who never hesitates to stay late to ensure that her patients receive the highest standard of care. Her commitment, not just to clinical excellence but also to empathy and inclusion, is remarkable.

"Lucy truly embodies the Trust values in everything she does. Her kindness, compassion, and integrity shine through daily. She leads by example, inspires those around her, and reminds us all of the powerful difference that genuine care and connection can make in healthcare."

Kate Gordon

Scarborough

Kate showed exceptional kindness and compassion while caring for a patient with dementia on Holly Ward. The patient had a doll she treated like her own baby and became very distressed when she felt she had nothing to feed or care for it.

Thinking creatively and acting on her own initiative, Kate sourced baby bottles, a blanket, a nappy, and socks from Rainbow Ward to help comfort the patient and support her in caring for the doll.

Her thoughtful actions made a real difference, helping the patient feel safe, understood, and happy. A wonderful example of person-centred care.

Rose Kay

York

While on a routine visit to a surgical ward, Rose overheard distressing sounds and found an adult patient with autism in severe pain. She immediately acted, liaising with staff, reviewing records, and escalating concerns to an Advanced Clinical Practitioner.

Her swift actions led to urgent investigations, uncovering a raised lactate level and prompting timely treatment. Rose also involved the neurodiversity nurse to ensure all of the patient’s needs were met.

Her vigilance and empathy made a profound difference for the patient and their family, potentially saving their life.

Sharon McDade

Scarborough

In the lead-up to Christmas, Sharon called an elderly patient to confirm his procedure and discovered he would be spending the festive period alone with only a microwave meal.

Deeply upset to hear this, she took action. Despite the challenges of the season, Sharon arranged for a Christmas food package and card to be delivered to his home.

Overwhelmed with gratitude, the 92-year-old gentleman said, “This is one of the kindest things anyone has ever done for me.”

Sharon’s compassion and commitment make her a true asset to the NHS. In the words of her colleagues, “Sharon’s kindness and dedication often go far beyond her role.”

Chrissy Cosheril

Scarborough

Chrissy provided outstanding care and reassurance when an elderly patient arrived for eye surgery to find she had been given incorrect information about the procedure.

Recognising the patient’s distress, Chrissy quickly reassured her, explained the correct surgery clearly, and ensured she felt comfortable and safe. She listened attentively, addressed specific concerns about positioning and temperature, and made necessary accommodations.

Despite her other duties, Chrissy stayed to support the patient and offered to escalate the issue to prevent future errors. Her kindness, empathy, and professionalism made a lasting difference.

The patient’s family member said, “Mum and I are forever grateful. Thank you, Chrissy.”

Dan Burton and Faith Young

Scarborough

Dan and Faith showed outstanding care and compassion for an elderly MRI patient who was frail, immobile, and unable to communicate or recall his medical history.

The gentleman's condition had deteriorated significantly since his last clinic visit, and with no available next of kin to assist, they relied on patient records to check his medical information.

Unfortunately, a number of necessary tests led to a late transport home. Staying well beyond their shift until after 11pm, Dan and Faith ensured the patient was safe, comfortable, and properly cared for.

The next day, they appropriately escalated concerns to review the gentleman's care package. Thank you, Dan and Faith.

Rad Humenczyk

Scarborough

Rad went out of his way to support a highly anxious patient who was struggling to enter the radiography department for an MRI scan.

Spotting her distress, he took time from his break to reassure her, explain the process, and help her feel at ease. His patience and kindness gave her the courage to proceed, and he even cut his break short to stay by her side throughout.

The patient has said that, without his support, she would not have gone through with the scan. His compassion and dedication truly made a difference.

Emily Poppleton

Scarborough

Emily supported a patient who disclosed they had experienced domestic abuse after they were found distressed by security and brought to the emergency department.

Throughout her night shift, Emily ensured the police were contacted, appropriate referrals were made, and a safety plan was developed.

Emily’s kindness and empathy created a safe space for the frightened patient to open up about their experience, feelings, and fears. She even met with the police before her next shift to assist their enquiries.

Emily’s dedication was vital in ensuring the patient felt supported and that a plan for their safety was in place.

Blood Sciences, Scarborough, Hull and York Pathology Service

Hull Royal Infirmary

In the early hours of New Year’s Day, the Transfusion Department at Hull Royal Infirmary faced an unexpected Major Incident (MAJAX) call.

Angela McClean and Charmaine Mariano acted swiftly, prioritising trauma cases and ordering emergency blood stock. Despite the late hour, Alex Clubley and Hannah Bridge rushed in to help, while Paul Glover and Dean Aves kept the lab running - braving heavy rain to assist clinical staff.

Though fewer blood components were needed in the end, their dedication, teamwork, and sacrifice (especially at 3am on New Year’s Day) were remarkable, and the rest of the department is deeply grateful for their incredible efforts.

Ward 16

York

The staff on Ward 16 were nominated by a recent patient who observed the team’s exemplary care for other patients on the ward.

He shared: “I want to sincerely thank the incredible team on Ward 16 for their outstanding care. Every staff member showed dedication, compassion, and professionalism, making a difficult time easier.

"I especially want to recognise Tamayha for her patience and kindness in supporting patients, particularly those with dementia, always handling challenges with grace. Giss, your warmth, knowledge, and humour brought comfort to everyone around you. Your care was truly exceptional.

"To the whole team - your compassion did not go unnoticed, and I am deeply grateful for everything you do. Thank you from the bottom of my heart.”

Chloe Slater

York

Chloe played a vital role in organising a Christmas collection for refugee women and their babies, who are often relocated at short notice with nothing.

Recognising the opportunity to ease the burden on a supporting charity, she quickly took action - creating posters, arranging drop-off points across York, and continuously promoting the appeal.

Chloe dedicated personal time to sorting donations, ensuring the overwhelming response reached those in need. Her dedication, energy, and compassion have made a significant impact, and the team is already planning a follow-up collection.

In the words of Chloe's nominator, "She has been inspirational in the care, time, and energy she has given to this collection and an unsung hero of a collection that we honestly did not know how it was going to go."

Pouya Alaghband

York

Pouya was nominated by his colleagues in the Ophthalmology Waiting List Team, who said, "I am nominating Mr Alaghband to highlight him for his exceptional dedication and professionalism in the workplace, alongside always maintaining an air of positivity which works to boost morale.

"We were facing an unexpected challenge when a surgery list was cancelled at short notice. Mr Alaghband stepped in without hesitation, demonstrating a remarkable commitment to the Trust values, and ensured urgent and long waiting patients were not delayed in their treatment.

"Mr Alaghband’s ability to quickly adapt to the situation and ensure that all necessary tasks were covered was truly impressive. He not only managed the additional workload with grace but also maintained a positive attitude throughout the process and spared the waiting list team the unenviable task of cancelling the patients at short notice."