Nurse and Team Leader Debbie Handley has won a Cavell Star Award for going above and beyond for her Riverside Neighbourhood Team colleagues at the Worcestershire Health and Care NHS Trust.
Kate Pike, Debbie’s manager and Integrated Community Service Lead explains,
“Debbie is a special person and I know that the team would be in support of this nomination. She is sometimes referred to as ‘Ma Larkin’ and is known for her buffet lunches, which she organises, often at her own expense to mark any occasions such as special birthdays, baby showers and so on. Debbie will always ensure that her staff receive the cards, flowers, gifts and speeches they deserve.
“If staff are having a hard time, Debbie will ensure they have the right support and always makes time to meet with staff who are off sick, returning to work or are on maternity leave. Debbie tries to ensure that staff wellbeing is protected by encouraging lunch breaks and for staff to leave on time.
“When my own father passed away, Debbie supported me through ‘his last days’ and later on brought me a beautiful rose to remember him. She has a big heart and is full of compassion. She always puts others first, even though she has been through difficult times herself.
“Debbie is very highly thought of and has a great sense of humour too which makes her a great person to work with.”