RCN Awards honour for Carrickfergus man

A health professional from Carrickfergus has been honoured for the high standard of person-centred care he delivers to patients.
Brenda McIlmurray (left), RCN, Richard McCrum, runner-up of the Health Care Support Workers Award and Janice Smyth, director of the RCN in Northern Ireland. INCT 21-756-CONBrenda McIlmurray (left), RCN, Richard McCrum, runner-up of the Health Care Support Workers Award and Janice Smyth, director of the RCN in Northern Ireland. INCT 21-756-CON
Brenda McIlmurray (left), RCN, Richard McCrum, runner-up of the Health Care Support Workers Award and Janice Smyth, director of the RCN in Northern Ireland. INCT 21-756-CON

Richard McCrum was runner-up in the Health Care Support Worker Award category at the RCN Northern Ireland Nurse of the Year Awards.

Organised by the Royal College of Nursing, the awards ceremony took place at the Culloden Hotel, Holywood.

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A senior care assistant in Ben Madigan Care Home, Richard was recognised for working closely with other members of the team to promote patient dignity, respect and choice.

His nominator describes how he promotes effective infection control, food safety and patient interaction, monitoring mealtimes to ensure that patients receive appropriate nutrition and that their food preferences are met.

Richard now provides mentorship for junior members of staff, ensuring they feel prepared and supported in their roles. He has completed all mandatory training and obtained NVQ level two in health and social care.

Richard’s nominator says: “He is a valued member of the team and works closely with nurses and other members of the multidisciplinary team to give person-centred holistic care. I would feel very happy for Richard to look after my loved one.”

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The judging panel was extremely impressed with the perseverance and commitment to patients that Richard displays in his work, his absolute focus on the patient and the transformation he has helped to achieve in patient care.

RCN Northern Ireland director Janice Smyth said: “The problems confronting our health and social care service are well-documented. However, we are fortunate to have nurses in Northern Ireland whose skills and expertise are in demand across the world. We need to ensure that these same nurses feel supported, recognised and valued for the excellent care they provide to the people of Northern Ireland.

“Despite the challenges, nurses continue to be committed to improving services and care for patients as demonstrated tonight. Congratulations to all of our winners who are a credit to the nursing profession.”