Boston nurse wins silver award for her work during the pandemic

A lead general practice nurse in Boston has received the prestigious Chief Nursing Officer Silver Award. 

Sarah Hyde, who works for Lincolnshire Community Health Service NHS Trust (LCHS) at The Sidings Medical Practice in Boston was awarded this honour for her work throughout the COVID-19 pandemic.

Sarah is a nurse who stood out, she took a lead role in the vaccination hub in Boston coordinating nursing teams from different practices to ensure the most vulnerable patients could be vaccinated safely and close to home. Her colleagues say she is an exceptional nurse who not only inspires but provides support to the whole team and always goes that extra mile.

Adele Parsons, Sarah’s manager said: “Working during the pandemic has been exceptionally challenging and the public have seen the commitment of nurses throughout: the professionalism, competence and breadth of skill.

“I will never forget what Sarah said to me when the vaccination programme was announced – she said we have got this, this is our bit and we can do this - and she has!

“Sarah’s conduct and leadership have been exemplary, she has reassured staff and patients and adapted to the rapidly changing guidelines to ensure her practice and team are up to date and in line with current guidance. It is excellent to see one of our own general practice nurses being recognised in this way.”

The Chief Nursing Officer awards were introduced in 2019 to recognise significant and outstanding contributions made by nurses and midwives in England. The awards are for individuals and teams who have excelled in their performance. There are two categories, the Gold Award which recognises lifetime achievements and the Silver Award which acknowledges major contributions to patients and the profession.

Sarah was presented the award virtually by Duncan Burton, Deputy Chief Nursing Officer for England.

Duncan said: “Sarah exemplifies nurse leadership in the NHS. She has shown incredible commitment to patient care and provided valuable support for colleagues throughout the pandemic.

It was a privilege to present her with a Chief Nursing Officer Award to recognise her work and the contribution she had made."

Sarah works as a Lead General Practice Nurse in a busy general practice with over 17,000 patients, leading and co-ordinating a team of nurses.

Sarah said: “I feel extremely honoured to receive this award. It was a complete surprise and an emotional moment. I’m pleased we were able to play our part during the COVID-19 vaccine programme and help the national effort, to keep people safe. The whole team at The Sidings has worked very hard in unprecedented times to deliver the vaccine programme locally and care for our patients as usual.”