A TRIO of caring staff members at NHS Ayrshire and Arran are the latest recipients of a top award.

The Isabella Kimmett Compassionate Care Award is awarded twice a year, and celebrates nursing, midwifery and allied health professionals, GP and care home staff who have shown compassionate care qualities.

The award winners all demonstrated highly compassionate and person-centred care through their various and diverse roles working for the health board.

Keith Allan, a staff nurse within elderly mental health regularly goes “above and beyond” for his patients in Marchburn Ward at East Ayrshire Community Hospital.

Keith was recognised for the exceptional care he provides both within and outside of his working hours as he regularly gives his own time to attend to the gardens, put up decorations and visit the ward when he is off duty.

Louise Taylor, a health visiting support worker based at Galston Health Clinic was recognised for her outstanding contribution to her team and the babies and families they support. 

Louise spends extra time with new mums who may be struggling with exhaustion and with their mental health to help build their confidence and let them know they aren’t alone.

She also gives her own time to help source baby equipment for families in need.

Natalie Bowie is clinical team lead for district nursing at Ailsa Hospital.

She was recognised for the care, compassion, empathy and kindness she demonstrates towards her patients and their families, some of whom are struggling with a recent palliative diagnosis or long term conditions.

Natalie also provides support to her team of approximately 20 staff and continually drives change to improve services, tirelessly working for her patients and her team.

Keith and Louise were presented their awards by Jacqueline Thomson, daughter of the late Isabella Kimmett. Unfortunately Natalie was not able to attend.

NHS Ayrshire and Arran nursing director Jennifer Wilson was also present and congratulated each of the recipients.

She said: “Here at NHS Ayrshire and Arran we endeavour to embed the principles of compassion and person-centred care in all of our services; each of these staff members exemplifies these core characteristics and I applaud them for the valuable contribution they make to our organisation and the lives of local patients and their families.

"These Isabella Kimmett Compassionate Care Awards are well deserved and my congratulations and heartfelt thanks go to each of the worthy recipients.”