Two healthcare support workers (HCSW) from St Austell Community Hospital were given national awards to mark Nursing Support Workers Day last Thursday.  

Zina Haimotu and Lauren Dombrick from were presented with Chief Nursing Officer HCSW Awards, and received a surprise visit from Ed Cox of NHS England, who read out moving nominations from their colleagues. 

Lauren was nominated by senior staff nurse, Annie Dyson, who said: “The term compassion is something Lauren encapsulates, not just for the patients in her care but their loved ones, and also her colleagues.  

“Her outstanding level of care is consistent as she demonstrates the values of the Harold White ward; we strive for excellent patient care, and Lauren meets this daily. 

“She has this magical skill of understanding each patient and their emotional and physical needs. She reads an atmosphere and provides the patient with whatever it is that would improve their day.” 

Annie described Lauren as “one of the most professional, kind, and genuine people I have every come across.”  

She added: “I have seen her comfort her colleagues when needed, and if there is a challenge in another bay Lauren will be the one to step forward and provide that calm element while achieving the goal of making sure everybody is safe and happy. 

“We do have some patients with challenging behaviours and I often delegate their care to Lauren, particularly if they have cognitive issues such as dementia.  I sometimes get quite emotional watching her with patients who are struggling psychologically – she has the power of turning that emotion into a positive thing and building that rapport, which their families find reassuring.” 

Speaking after receiving the award, Lauren said: “It was a surprise – I was not expecting it at all. I’m very honoured and emotional. 

“It was amazing to hear the nomination. I think when you’re doing your normal day-to-day job, you do not realise what people are thinking of you.  

“I love interacting with the patients, getting to know them. A lot of the patients are elderly, so I hear about their stories from the past.  

“I just enjoy making their days better in any way I can, really. I’ve always wanted to look after people.” 

“I love interacting with patients and working really well with our team. It’s a lovely feeling to help. Giving that extra care and seeing patients go home with happiness makes me happy.” 

Zina was nominated by senior staff nurse Stacie May, who wrote: “Zina’s potential for development was evident from the very first day she started here. 

“She consistently demonstrates a high level of care with each patient. She is often the person we go to for information on patients and their visitors.” 

Stacie credited Zina with playing a huge part in developing the use of the This Is Me records used on the wards – documents that aim to ensure personal attentive care is provided.  

“Zina’s awareness of every aspect of care, from moving and handling, to dietary requirements, is exemplary,” she continued.  

“She is a real inspiration to her patients and her colleagues. We are consistently receiving positive feedback about her from all team members. 

“I can honestly say we have seen a real improvement in patient care since Zina joined us. 

“She is a great role model to all of our HCAs and student nurses.” 

Zina was asked to come into work on her day off, and admitted the award had come as a complete surprise. “I thought I was in trouble at first,” she laughed.  

“I am honoured to receive this award. It’s a big surprise. I am not very good at receiving praise, so I was gobsmacked. 

“Coming into work and giving that care to our patients, it is very rewarding to know that we recognised.”