Congratulations to our three RCN Nursing Award winners

We are thrilled to see all three of our shortlisted staff win in their respective categories at today’s ceremony, held at RCN Headquarters at 20 Cavendish Square. The awards were presented by comedian and TV presenter Judi Love in the first in-person event in two years.

Jo Hargroves, Cancer Research UK senior research nurse and joint lead cancer research nurse at University College Hospital, won the Excellence in Cancer Research Nursing award for designing a course enabling staff new to clinical research to share expertise. Of the achievement, acting chief nurse Vanessa Sweeney said: “Jo is an outstanding professional nurse who is passionate about clinical research. She was the driving force behind the development and delivery of a Clinical Research Professionals course, so I am very pleased to see her work acknowledged with this award.

“Embracing an inclusive approach, Jo ensured the design of the programme was suitable for all grades, from any professional background. Her leadership in this specialist area is inspiring and she’s a role model to others.”

Robert Vicente, charge nurse on T8 infection ward at University College Hospital, has won the Greener Nursing Practice award for his work in identifying ways that he and his team can reduce or avoid the use of disposable gloves. This led to the ward reducing its usage by 36,500 disposable gloves over a four-month period.

Vanessa Sweeney said: “I am delighted that Robert’s work has been recognised by the RCN. He has been a committed green champion at UCLH for several years, combining waste reduction strategies alongside engaging the team in making the hospital green for the future.

“Robert has made the campaign fun, engaging and competitive which has really helped staff embrace the challenge. This has been particularly difficult during the pandemic, but Robert’s dedication to the campaign has ensured safe and sustainable practices are embedded.”

Susie Lagrata, clinical nurse specialist, wins the Innovations in Your Specialty award for her work transforming services for patients with primary headache disorders. She has improved access and reduced waiting times from 4-6 months to two weeks. Of Susie’s achievements, Vanessa Sweeney said: “Susie epitomises all that is great about nursing, and I am so very proud of her achievements and delighted that she has been honoured in this way. She has a clear vision for her service and keeps patients at the heart of everything she does.

“She is a clinical expert in her field and has the ability to inspire, influence and motivate everyone with whom she works to achieve excellence in all that they do.”

Congratulations, once again, to all three on their awards, and for demonstrating the expertise, commitment, innovation and dedication of staff here at UCLH.