An Apprentice Nursing Associate at The Princess Alexandra Hospital NHS Trust (PAHT) has been recognised with a prestigious national award for her outstanding contribution to patient care and raising awareness of sepsis.
Ellie Falconer received a Chief Nursing Officer Student Excellence Award during a special celebration at Anglia Ruskin University (ARU), marking the completion of the Nursing Associate programme for the September 2024 cohort.
The award was presented by Wendy Matthews, Director of Nursing and Regional Chief Midwife, in recognition of Ellie’s compassion and dedication throughout her training. The celebration was attended by Ellie’s family, friends and colleagues, alongside representatives from NHS England, PAHT and ARU.
Alongside her role at PAHT and studies at ARU, Ellie has become a passionate advocate for sepsis awareness following the death of her younger sister, Ruby, from sepsis.
Ellie has authored a children’s book, Super Teddy, to help raise awareness of sepsis, supported the work of the UK Sepsis Trust and raised more than £55,000 for the charity. She has also helped raise a further £13,000 for the Ruby Rose charity, established by her family in Ruby’s memory.
Earlier this year, Ellie was shortlisted for two Nursing Times Awards – Student Nursing Associate of the Year and Student Innovation in Practice.
Wendy Matthews, Director of Nursing and Regional Chief Midwife, said: “It was a privilege to present this award to Ellie. It recognises not only her outstanding achievements as a Nursing Associate, but also her courage, compassion and determination to improve care for others. She is an inspiration to us all.”
Polly Read, Deputy Director of Nursing at PAHT, said: “Ellie is a wonderful example of the compassion, dedication and determination that our Nursing Associates bring to their roles. Alongside her commitment to providing excellent care for our patients, she has shown incredible passion in raising awareness of sepsis and supporting others. This award is a thoroughly deserved recognition of her achievements, and we are incredibly proud of her. We wish Ellie every success as she takes the next step in her nursing career.”
As Ellie completes her Nursing Associate training, she is looking forward to the next stage of her career and plans to continue her studies to become a Registered Nurse.