A TEAM which strives to improve the lives of those living with dementia were recognised as Royal Surrey County Hospital celebrated its stars of 2016.

The Dementia Champion Group was named the Team of the Year after consistently going that extra mile for their patients. They were one of 10 winners announced at the event after the hospital received more than 160 nominations from both patients and staff.

The Dementia Champion Group was praised for its commitment to ‘improving their knowledge, sharing ideas and techniques, empowering colleagues and fundraising’.

Their nomination read: “They have one main goal and that is to improve the patients’ care and enhance both the patient and carer experience of coming to hospital.”

Tina Hetherington, head of nursing for medicine and access, was named the employee of the year after being praised for her ‘highly developed leadership skills’.

Her citation read: “She displays great leadership qualities and integrity and demonstrates immense empathy and compassion not just for patients but for her staff, from porters to new junior doctors.”

The Patient’s Choice Award went to nurse Olga Sueros-Velarde, who was acknowledged for her ‘true compassion’ and ‘understanding’.

The patient who nominated Olga wrote: “I couldn’t have asked for a more understanding, meticulous and knowledgeable nurse to help me through an incredibly difficult period.

“She is a true inspiration and a huge asset to Royal Surrey and its patients.”

Chief executive Paula Head said the awards provide an opportunity to celebrate the “outstanding care provided by our staff who really do go above and beyond for their patients.”

She added: “It is their efforts that make a real difference and I am proud to work alongside them every day.

“The winners are all a credit to this hospital and to their profession.

“Finally, the evening would not have been possible without the generosity of our sponsors, so a very special thank you to AllScripts, Bouygues, Dell, Gidden Place, Grayshott Spa, Guildford Borough Council, Hempsons, Jamie’s Italian, K2, Medirest, Synergy Health and the University of Surrey.”