Paediatric Matron, Lynne Mould, became the Trust’s first recipient of the Cavell Star medal after being nominated by members of her team at the Royal Alexandra Children’s Hospital for going above and beyond to support her colleagues, patients and their families throughout the pandemic.
Lorraine Tinker, Divisional Head of Nursing – Children’s Services said: “Lynne was nominated for her continued support to the teams, which was particularly evident throughout Covid. She is always a ‘go-to’ person people come to with their problems and issues, both patients’ families and staff.”
“She is always there to listen to staff in their difficulties, professionally and emotionally. She supported her colleagues all through Covid, which has affected us all in many ways, but she has always been the constant there for all of us – doctors and nurses. We’re so lucky to have her as a colleague and a leader.”
Cavell Star Awards are a national awards programme that shines a light on nurses, midwives, nursing associates and healthcare assistants who show exceptional care to their colleagues, patients and patients’ families.
Lynne was presented with her Cavell medal and pin by Dr Emma Wadey, Mental Health Professional Nurse Lead for NHS England.
She said of the award: “I was stunned. I really appreciated it and it made me feel completely valued. To know what I’ve been doing has made a difference, gives back that purpose of why you come to work. To win was most unexpected and much appreciated.”
Dr Maggie Davies, Chief Nurse, said: “We are so proud to have amazing staff, like Lynne, winning such well-deserved awards and playing a key supportive role to those around them.”
“Lynne was nominated for her care, compassion, kindness and continued support to the teams around her, as well as patients and their families. These attributes are core to us at UHSussex. I’m so happy to see my teams every day, and particularly during the pandemic, give so much to our patients. The teamwork is incredible.”
Lynne is also one of the first graduates as a children’s Professional Nurse Advocate in the UK, a programme for nurses started by Dr Emma Wadey. She successfully completed the Masters programme last year, enabling her to provide psychological support to staff to ensure they feel valued whilst helping reduce stress.