Claire Welsh – Star Award Winner

31 October 2024

Joining the Dots Co-ordinator Claire Welsh has been named as Star Award winner in the category of Respect and Dignity in the County Durham and Darlington NHS Foundation Trust Star Awards ceremony.

Nominations were invited for staff in the trust who fulfilled the requirements for the Respect and Dignity award which included: Showing respect and dignity at the heart of all they do.  An individual who leads by example in the way they value every person, patients, families, carers or colleagues.  Someone who respects difference and understands and respects that we each have limitations and who is interested in the needs of others, treating people as valued individuals.

Claire’s nomination stated: “Whether working with a client or supporting her own staff team, Claire goes above and beyond to ensure dignity and respect is given across every area of her work; inspiring others to do the same. A client had informed Claire about poor patient care during a recent hospital stay, which resulted in the patient declaring they would no longer attend the hospital or call an ambulance if they became unwell but didn’t want to raise an official complaint. Claire sought advice and worked with Freedom to Speak Up Guardian to address the situation so that future patient experience would be a positive one. She encourages her staff team and those around her to speak up for clients who may not otherwise have a voice. She is an inspiration and I believe she should be recognised for her hard work and motivation to uphold dignity and respect.”

Well done to Claire for winning this award and providing the best possible quality of care while being respectful and treating people as valued individuals.