Neonatal nurse wins Star of the Month award for training staff in screening
Victoria Stevens was given the ABC (ambition, bravery and compassion) Star of the Month accolade for ensuring staff are effectively trained in offering the testing in a timely manner.
Based on the Neonatal Intensive Care Unit (NICU), she was nominated by a colleague for the staff recognition award.
They wrote in their nomination: “She is truly compassionate about the care we provide to babies here at Birmingham Women’s Hospital. She is passionate about ensuring every baby has access to timely screening, even if they are on a more complex pathway of care.
“It is refreshing to have been able to work alongside such a dedicated, hardworking and committed individual who truly wants to make a difference to the patients she cares for. We are truly lucky to have such a wonderful employee and I'm sure she will go far in her career with this ambition and passion. Thank you for all your hard work.”
Other finalists for the award included Phoebe Sweeney, Annabelle Mascoll, and Harriet Bytom, all midwives who work on the Delivery Suite at our Women’s Hospital.
Their nomination referred to the care delivered to a woman who was in labour. Written by a colleague, it stated: “Throughout this experience, they demonstrated an unwavering commitment to compassionate, safe, and patient-centred care. Their calm and professional presence helped to create a sense of stability at a time when the family felt vulnerable and uncertain. Where others struggled to provide reassurance, they consistently offered clear communication, empathy, and strong advocacy for the family's needs.
“Their ability to build trust so quickly and effectively ensured that the family felt heard, respected, and supported throughout their care. They navigated the situation with both clinical skill and emotional intelligence, embodying the highest standards of midwifery practice.”
Emily Hughes, a Physiotherapist at our Children’s Hospital, was also a finalist.
Nominated by a patient, they explained: “From the very beginning, she showed not only exceptional professional knowledge and skill, but also genuine compassion, patience, and dedication. Emily took the time to understand our baby's individual needs, carefully explained every step of the treatment to us, and always made sure we felt supported and reassured as parents.
“What truly stood out was the extra care and attention she gave at every appointment. Emily checked in on our baby's progress beyond scheduled sessions, and adapted techniques to make our baby feel comfortable and safe. Her kindness and encouragement made an incredibly difficult and emotional journey much easier for our family.
“Thanks to Emily's commitment and hard work, we have seen amazing progress in our baby's development. We are deeply grateful for the positive impact she has had, not only on our baby's physical progress but also on our family's wellbeing. Emily's dedication, warmth, and willingness to go above and beyond make them truly exceptional.”
Congratulations to our finalists and our winner.