A Macmillan team of nurses who go above and beyond for people living with cancer in East London have been honoured with a prestigious award.
The Enhanced Supportive Care team, which is the only nurse-led service of its kind in the country, scooped the Macmillan Professionals Excellence Award because of how they truly go the extra mile in improving the quality of life of terminal people living with cancer within the Barking, Havering and Redbridge University Hospital Trust.
Lucie Summerfield, Enhanced Supportive Care Joint Lead Clinical Nurse Specialist, explained how they strive to bridge the gap between oncology and end of life care.
She said: “Many patients with incurable cancer have a limited window of time to experience joy and make memories with their loved ones – but they can only achieve this if their symptoms are well managed. That’s exactly what the Enhanced Supportive Care Team at Barking, Havering and Redbridge University Hospital Trust do.
“The unique nurse-led team offers palliative care expertise at the point of diagnosis and proactively searches for ways to improve patients’ lives through symptom management and holistic support. Among their many initiatives, they give patients ad hoc access to their clinic, plus they have joined forces with their local food bank to make it easier for patients to use.
“We reach out to patients and our clinic has an open-door policy. We don’t let anybody slip through the net.”
The team were chosen by judges to receive the Whatever It Takes Award, a category for the ‘unsung heroes’ – individuals who have demonstrated extraordinary efforts and values of heart, strength and ambition through their compassion, kindness and teamwork.
Dan Callanan, Macmillan Partnership Manager for North East London said: “The Macmillan Excellence Awards are an annual opportunity to show our appreciation for Macmillan professionals, who work tirelessly day in day out to make a real difference for people with cancer.
“The awards highlight the partnership work between Macmillan and the NHS, with roles usually funded thanks to the public’s generosity.
“This year that work has been more vital than ever, due to the challenges that the coronavirus pandemic has brought.
“We are incredibly proud of the Enhanced Supportive Care team and all our professionals for their continued commitment to going above and beyond in their work.”
Macmillan’s prestigious and independent awards highlight excellence across the UK and the impact of Macmillan professionals and teams who have done whatever it takes to support people living with cancer.
Pauline Staley, Joint Enhanced Supportive Care Lead Clinical Nurse Specialist added: “The Enhanced Supportive Care team believe it’s the small things that make a big difference. We are thrilled that our nurse led team have been recognised by Macmillan for the difference we make to our patients’ lives.”
The awards allow Macmillan to celebrate their professionals’ unique spirit by showcasing not just what they do, but how they do it.
