DEDICATED hospital staff who have proven themselves to be everyday heroes are set to be celebrated.

To many patients and their families, the team at Southend Hospital are as super as Wonder Woman and Spider-Man - just without the costumes.

The trust has joined forces with the Echo for the fifth consecutive year in a row as it starts its quest to discover its own Hospital Heroes.

Individuals or teams nominated by members of the public will have to show that they take the time to care for others, are good communicators, are caring with compassion and empathy, and treat others with dignity and respect.

They will also respect patients’ time, giving others choice and independence, and they involve patients in their treatment decisions and choices

Yvonne Blücher, managing director of Southend Hospital, said: “This is the patients’, carers’, relatives’ and visitors’ chance to say thank you by nominating a member of staff who has gone that extra mile to deliver the best possible service.

“It’s is a very special category as all nominations come in from the public, so we know that whoever is nominated is a shining beacon for the hospital and their profession. We cover so many roles here at the hospital so whether it is a nurse, a receptionist or a doctor, or someone from another area, they can stand proud.”

Chris Hatton, editor of the Echo, said: “As a community paper we are proud to be part of these awards to find our local heroes. Every year it’s really humbling to see so many people passionate about caring for others and making a real positive difference to so many patients’ lives and their families.

“I can’t wait to see some of the inspiring and moving stories that we are sure to discover again this year.”

Last year’s Patients’ Choice winner was Claire Buckell, clinical development nurse - who had 58 per cent of the final 7,000 votes.

On collecting her award at last year’s ceremony, she said: “This award is made all the more special as it’s 20 years to the day since I got my nursing PIN and qualified.

“I see it not just about celebrating the work I’m doing now but the work I have done in the past. It’s a very special award and I’ll treasure it and the fact that it was nominated by the public.”

Nomination can be made via southend.nhs.uk. The closing date for nominations is 5pm on Friday, August 4.

http://www.southend.nhs.uk/about-us/media-centre/hospital-heroes-awards-2017-patients-choice/