Patient champion praises NHS staff for their world class care

Nearly 300 staff from Central and North West London (CNWL) heard Ashley speak about the importance of showing compassion and the human touch, not just to patients but also to members of staff.

He spoke movingly about how various NHS staff, from a different trust, were there for him when he contracted leukaemia.

He said: “Thank you to the NHS for being there for me when I needed you most. It was world-class care. Compassion was the important element in that. Without you, my family would be lost. We also need to care about you - the staff - more.”

The conference was aimed at sharing achievements and networking and involved showcase presentations of excellence, from clinical services including talks from carers and patients. There were staff and team awards, workshops and stands from clinical and support services.

Awards were presented by deputy mayor Cllr David Hopkins, the divisional director and service directors. Staff were also treated to free pamper taster sessions courtesy of Milton Keynes College Students.

Divisional director Lorna Payne said: “This was a thoroughly inspirational and enjoyable event for our staff to learn from each other and to take time out from their busy schedules to reflect on their practice and to feed back where they thought improvements could be made.