NNUH champion of equality and diversity wins national award

The Norfolk and Norwich University Hospitals’ Assistant Director of Nursing has won a national award which recognises her commitment and that of the Trust, to equality and diversity in the care of patients and in the workplace.

The NHS Employers Personal Fair and Diverse (PDF) awards aim to honour those organisations or individuals who demonstrate an on-going commitment to personalised care through inclusive behaviour which has helped to either improve patient care or created a more inclusive workplace.

Dawn Collins, Assistant Director of Nursing at the Norfolk and Norwich University Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust (NNUH), has won the PDF individual award. The individual award goes to a person who has gone the extra mile to engage and encourage staff from within the Trust to promote ‘personal, fair and diverse’ across the Trust.

Dawn was the senior champion for the Trust’s participation in Stonewall’s Health Champions programme during 2012-13. The Trust was one of 20 NHS organisations in England supported by the programme which aims to improve health services for lesbian, gay and bisexual people. Dawn has also played a key role in supporting the development of the Trust LGBT support network which was set up in 2012 by staff. The network promotes a number of initiatives including flying the rainbow flag, having Stonewall posters in patient areas, attending workshops with LGBT patients and hosting LGBT events.

Dawn said: “I’m really pleased to win this award. The LGBT support network has an important role in highlighting equality and diversity issues across the Trust.”

Emma McKay, Director of Nursing, said: “It’s great for Dawn’s work to be recognised. A vibrant and committed network has been established at the Trust now for the benefit of both patients and staff.”