A GROUP of dedicated nurses who provide chemotherapy to more than 100 patients each day, have been named Royal Surrey County Hospital’s nursing team of the year.

Staff from the Chilworth Day Unit received the accolade at the trust’s annual nursing and midwifery conference. They were recognised for their commitment and for providing a “safe, positive and happy place to visit” for the 110 patients they treat each day in Guildford.

The awards recognise the nurse, midwife, health care assistant and team, who are a true ambassador of the “6Cs” -commitment, courage, care, compassion, communications and competency – drawn up by NHS England chief nursing officer Jane Cummings.

Paediatric senior sister Nicky Waghorn was named this year’s 6C nurse for going “above and beyond her job role”.

Ruth Breen, specialist midwife for teenage mothers and babies, was 6Cs register midwife of the year for her “high levels of competency” and providing a “non-judgmental” service.

Her role sees her working with expectant mothers, some as young as 12 years of age.

Zoe Hutton (pictured), who works in the Day Surgery Unit, was named healthcare assistant of the year.

She initially joined the unit as a housekeeper, before her keen interest in patient care was spotted. She has now successfully completed her foundation degree and is employed as an associate practitioner.

During the conference, which celebrate nursing and midwifery excellence, certificates were also presented to newly qualified staff nurses for completing their year-long preceptorship programme, and to healthcare assistants who have achieved their care certificate.

Awards were also presented to candidates from the pre-employment academy, who have completed their level one introduction to health and social care, prior to joining the trust as healthcare assistants.

Louise Stead, director of nursing and patient experience, said: “The chief nursing officer’s 6Cs are embedded in the values and behaviours we expect our teams to deliver 24 hours a day, 365 days a year.

“Our annual conference provides us with the opportunity to celebrate those members of nursing and midwifery staff who are shining examples of the national programme. Congratulations to all the winners.”