Lincolnshire’s first person is awarded the prestigious Chief Nursing Officer Award

Lauren O’meara works as a Health Care Support Worker in Lincolnshire Community Health Services NHS Trust’s (LCHS’s) Urgent Community Response Team and has been awarded the prestigious Chief Nursing Officer for England Healthcare Support Excellence Awards.

This award is a first for Lincolnshire and recognises the vital contribution of Healthcare Support Workers in England and their exceptional support of nursing and midwifery practice.

Lauren O’meara was presented this award during Healthcare and Midwifery Support Worker Celebration Week by Tracey Wall, Senior Nurse Advisor at NHS England – Midlands. Lauren was nominated by her colleagues and is described as hardworking, determined, and passionate.

Healthcare support workers are at the heart of clinical settings in local communities up and down the country, making a difference to the everyday lives of the patients they care for, and the nursing colleagues they support.

Lauren went to university and completed a degree, she wanted to train as a Physiotherapist but unfortunately, she had no hands on experience. Lauren joined the Urgent Community Response Team, hoping to get the patient-facing experience she needs.

Lauren said: “I am so proud to be the first person in Lincolnshire to receive this award. I have enjoyed working with the team and learning new skills. I am so grateful to all my colleagues who have supported me on my journey.”

Professor Karen Dunderdale, Deputy Group CEO and Director of Nursing said: “This is a fantastic achievement for Lauren, she has shown determination and consistently demonstrates the values of the NHS. I am delighted that she has been successful in achieving this award.”

Lauren is due to finish her degree at the University of Lincoln in 2024 and is hoping to pursue a career as a physiotherapist.