This award is dedicated to our dear friend Kate Westwood, an inspirational and dedicated paediatric registrar who touched the lives of so many of us and was hugely involved and invested in the PAFTAS.
One way we honour her memory is through naming this award after her and celebrating the qualities she so fantastically embodied.
This is the list of Paediatric Specialty Level Trainees (ST5+), SAS and Speciality/Staff Grade Doctors who were nominated for showing outstanding ability, leadership and teamwork.
Dr Jane Baker
Works at Torbay & South Devon
Jane exemplifies what it means to provide truly outstanding care. Her clinical expertise, compassion, and unwavering team support make her a vital presence in our department.
Jane is truly beautiful with babies and families — her bedside manner is warm, gentle, and deeply empathetic. Families trust her instantly, and she makes even the most difficult conversations feel safe and supported.
Beyond her compassion, Jane brings a high level of clinical skill, especially in emergency situations. She steps in calmly and confidently when it matters most, offering leadership, clear decision-making, and practical support to the team around her.
She is also an incredible support to her colleagues. Jane is generous with her time, kind in her interactions, and always available to teach or listen. She has supported me personally and professionally this year in ways that I will never forget. Her empathy is remarkable.
I can’t think of anyone more deserving of recognition.
Dr Louise Boddy
Works at Royal Devon & Exeter Hospital
Louise is one of the kindest and most genuinely thoughtful paediatric registrars I have ever worked with. She is consistently attentive to both her patients and the staff around her. Modest yet exceptionally knowledgeable, she teaches naturally, empowering junior doctors with confidence. Her compassion and communication with families are unmatched, guiding new parents and teenagers with equal skill. Louise has strengthened our respiratory audit process and actively encourages junior staff involvement. Her bedside and morning teaching are invaluable, especially heading into winter. A calm and capable leader, she inspires confidence in complex cases and resus situations, always communicating uncertainty with honesty and reassurance. Thank you Lou for helping us all be better at what we do.
Dr Cat Bowman
Works at Royal Cornwall Hospitals
If my child was ever brought into hospital, I would be so relieved if Cat was the registrar. She has such a composed and gentle manner which clearly provides much reassurance to parents. Cat is also a dedicated and highly knowledgeable individual and I have full confidence in her patient management. No job is too little for her; as a team player she will happily complete trivial tasks if it means better patient care and improved flow through the unit. She is supportive of the junior team (medical + nursing) in their learning and training and I would have no problem going to her with any questions or concerns. Thank you Cat for being such a lovely colleague!
Dr Sarah Brooke
Works at Royal Cornwall Hospitals
Sarah is such a valued colleague. She is an exemplary and experienced registrar; the calm, respectful manner in which she communicates with parents and families does not go unnoticed, and her clinical management is always considered and effective. This year Sarah has introduced ‘one minute wonders’- bitesize teaching posters for both doctors and nurses alike which have worked so well in disseminating knowledge throughout the team. It’s always both a pleasure and relief to have someone as capable as Sarah on shift.
Dr Stuart Davison
Works at North Devon District Hospital
Stuart is an outstanding paediatric clinician who consistently delivers excellence in every aspect of his work. His clinical knowledge, calm approach, and dedication ensure that every child receives safe and high-quality care.
Stuart is a role model — supportive, approachable, and always willing to lend a hand or share his expertise in Paediatrics and Diabetes. His leadership is powerful, fostering trust and respect among colleagues from all disciplines.
Dr Maria Garcia
Works at University Hospitals Plymouth
Maria is the most fantastic doctor. She is highly competent and calm in a crisis. She looks after her team and brings an element of fun to shifts. She is an inspiration to all trainees.
Dr Ashootosh Gupte
Works at Torbay & South Devon
Ash consistently demonstrates exceptional clinical expertise and dedication in all aspects of his paediatric work. His thorough assessments, sound clinical judgement, and calm approach under pressure ensure the highest standard of care for every child. He is highly respected by colleagues for his commitment to continual learning and for always striving to improve patient outcomes. His reliability and skill bring great reassurance to both staff and families.
Ash is an outstanding team player who uplifts everyone around him. Staff often express relief and confidence when they know he is on shift—his presence creates a calm, supportive, and collaborative atmosphere. He is always approachable and patient.
Ash’s kindness and compassion shine through in every interaction. He takes time to listen to families’ concerns, explain complex medical information clearly, and ensure parents feel involved and reassured. Children respond warmly to his gentle, empathetic manner, and he consistently goes above and beyond to provide holistic, family-centred care.
Ash exemplifies the RCPCH values of integrity, respect, compassion, and excellence. He demonstrates professionalism and humanity in every encounter, inspiring both colleagues and patients alike. His dedication to paediatrics and his genuine care for others make him an exceptional role model and a truly deserving nominee for this award.
Ash is a fantastic doctor. It is always a relief to see him on a shift. He is fantastic with the patients and their families, nothing is too much trouble and there is no sense of hierarchy when he is around. I have never felt nervous when i’ve needed to escalate care to him, he has always been amazing to me, as a nursery nurse on scbu, a student nurse and now a qualified nurse. you are awesome Ash!
Dr Amy Hanley
Works at University Hospitals Plymouth
Amy is a senior registrar with expertise in oncology, currently working in Plymouth. As a general paediatrician, she is exceptional. Throughout her training, she has consistently demonstrated a calm, efficient and no-nonsense approach — Amy simply gets things done. She combines this with warmth, humour and empathy, earning the trust of families and the admiration of colleagues across the medical, nursing and wider multidisciplinary team.
Her dedication to her oncology patients, both inpatient and in the community, is remarkable. She has also driven tangible service improvements, such as developing safety-netting “smart phrases” with QR codes for PAU discharge summaries at RDUH. This simple yet effective intervention ensures that families receive clear, consistent written guidance on managing their child’s condition — a perfect example of Amy’s ability to identify what truly matters and implement practical, high-impact change.
Amy is proactive in education, frequently stepping in to deliver teaching sessions. As a former simulation fellow, she designed and led regular, high-quality multidisciplinary training, and she continues to provide ad hoc teaching to medical students and junior doctors during busy shifts.
In high-pressure clinical situations, Amy is outstanding. During resuscitations and emergencies, she leads with composure, clarity and confidence, maintaining situational awareness to ensure the best possible care. Her leadership inspires calm and teamwork in others — including myself, as I have modelled my own approach to acute situations on hers.
Amy is an exemplary senior registrar and a future consultant of the highest calibre.
Amy is amazing to work alongside! She has such a wide range of knowledge, high level of patient and family care and has great relationships with the nursing and medical team. Amy always supports the nursing team in expanding their knowledge but also with workload and ensuring patient safety is a priority. We can’t wait for Amy to get a consult job with us!
Dr Natasha Hart
Works at Royal Devon & Exeter Hospital
Natasha is one of the best Registrar Doctors I have worked with. She is always, cheerful, helpful and available when you need advice. She always provides a high standard of care to her patients and family she also consistently attentive to their wellbeing.
I would like to nominate Tasha for her outstanding contribution to paediatric care. From a nursing perspective, she consistently demonstrates excellence in her clinical work and is a true asset to the team.
Tasha’s calm and approachable nature makes a real difference on the ward. No matter how busy or stressful the shift, she remains steady and reassuring, which helps both the children and their families feel safe and cared for. I’ve seen first-hand how her kindness and clear communication put parents at ease during difficult moments.
As a colleague, Tasha is always happy to help and supports the nursing team without hesitation. She listens carefully to our concerns, values our input, and works collaboratively to provide the best possible care. Her leadership is gentle but effective, and she naturally role-models professionalism and empathy in every interaction.
Tasha’s ability to remain calm under pressure and to connect with patients, families, and staff alike is truly inspiring. She creates a positive and supportive environment where the team can work more effectively, and patients receive compassionate, high-quality care.
Working alongside Tasha is a privilege, and her dedication to paediatrics shines through every day. I wholeheartedly recommend her for this recognition as she embodies everything a great paediatric doctor should be.
Dr Sue Hellewell
Works at Royal Devon & Exeter Hospital
It’s always a pleasure to see that Sue is working. She is considerate to all members of the multi disciplinary team and brings a great sense of confidence in the care being delivered. She looks after whole family units, not just the sick child, and draws on her extensive experience to anticipate physical, psychological and emotional needs. She never off-loads supportive tasks to the nursing team and can frequently be seen to impart her extensive knowledge alongside providing a cup of tea. She is always willing to discuss any aspects of patient care and share her vast knowledge on diabetes care with great enthusiasm. Sue has great expectations for the health of young diabetics and this is evident in her approach to health education as well as her knowledge of ongoing studies.She is hugely committed to the wellbeing of each child she encounters and her kindness and professional approach is inspirational.
Dr Jena Hopkins
Works at Torbay & South Devon
Jena is a lovely SpR to work with, she is quietly confident and makes the effort to get to know her team. She is working especially hard at the moment, covering rota gaps and supporting the department.
Dr Sam Janoff
Works at Royal Devon & Exeter Hospital
It’s always a pleasure to work with Sam. As a nurse, I feel completely reassured when I know he is on shift. He is calm, approachable, and leads the team with confidence and kindness, no matter how busy the shift becomes. Sam is an excellent doctor who demonstrates clinical excellence every day, and his steady presence brings a real sense of trust and teamwork to the ward.
Sam is incredibly supportive of the nursing team. He always listens to our concerns, values our input, and ensures that everyone feels heard and respected. In emergency situations, his calm leadership and clear communication make a huge difference—he brings structure and reassurance to even the most stressful scenarios. He’s also brilliant at teaching, taking the time to explain decisions, share knowledge, and encourage learning for both nurses and junior doctors.
His interactions with patients and families are truly compassionate. He communicates with warmth and honesty, taking the time to listen and involve them in every step of care. Families often comment on how kind and approachable he is, and it’s easy to see the trust they have in him.
Sam is an outstanding role model who embodies the best of paediatrics, skilled, caring, and an absolute team player. He not only provides exceptional care for his patients but also lifts the morale of everyone around him. He’s a pleasure to work with and truly deserves this recognition.
Sam is a fantastic paediatric doctor. I genuinely breathe a sense of relief when I know I’m on shift with him! Sam is always approachable and will support nursing staff in any way he can. If I have a concern he will listen and act on it appropriately and in a timely matter. If Sam is busy in another area such as NNU he will epic message to check in and make sure everything is ok with the HDU patients. Sam strives to do his very best at all times to ensure patients and families have the best care possible. Sam is very knowledgeable and a fabulous role model and you’ll often hear him teaching junior doctors in such a kind manner. Sam is always happy and kind to all members of the team. He has a great way of communicating with children of all ages and interacts with them in a calming/fun way. Sam also communicates well with the families and will do his best to put them at ease even in the most stressful of situations. Sam always remains calm in an emergency and escalates his concerns in a timely matter to prioritise patient safety. Sam is professional at all times and demonstrates great leadership skills. He is very confident with all skills he performs and is very confident in discussing patients with those that are more senior such as the consultants. Thank you Sam for being fun for everyone, staff, patients and families whilst providing excellent care. You’re a great colleague to work with and we are very lucky to have you on Bramble.
When I find out Sam is on a shift, I instantly feel calmer. I know that not only do I have an exceptionally competent doctor on hand, but he is approachable, gives sound advice and ideas and I know that he thinks about the nursing team and pressures on us. I have been in emergency situations with Sam, and he will not leave until that patient is stabilised and is the person you want there. Running them efficiently and well. Sam has excellent rapport with all staff, hcas to nurses and I know that I can ask any question and will receive a carefully thought out answer. As a result, what a wonderful role model for all the doctors coming though bramble! They all learn something from Sam, as he is so knowledgable, uses best evidence based practice and is always willing to help and teach. He is an advocate for nurses, doctors and patients and their families. He bonds well with patients, putting families at ease and leaves them feeling confident with his decisions and plans. There’s has been an extremely tricky patient recently, and I have been incredibly impressed at how he has dealt with them. Finding a fine balance between allowing discussion, setting firm boundaries and enabling the patient to feel empowered and as a result were able to provide medical care that I genuinely don’t think we would have achieved with any other doctor present. The nursing staff felt supported, and I could not have survived that shift without him. Sam is a wonderful human and doctor and I always know that my shift will run so much more smoothly with him on the ward. Thank you for all you do!
Sam is an amazing doctor who demonstrates excellence in every aspect of his work in paediatrics. He goes above and beyond for his patients, always taking the time to support those who can be complex or challenging, showing remarkable patience, compassion, and dedication. He provides excellent continuity of care by checking in with patients and families the following day, ensuring they feel reassured and supported. Families deeply value his kindness, empathy, and the exceptional standard of care he delivers. Sam also exemplifies outstanding teamwork, leadership, and role-modelling, always offering encouragement and support to his peers. He consistently embodies the values of the RCPCH through his professionalism, compassion, and unwavering commitment to child-centred care. His passion for his work is evident every day—he truly loves what he does, even in difficult times. Sam’s caring nature extends to his colleagues as well, as he ensures everyone feels supported both individually and as part of the team. When he is on shift, we all feel reassured, knowing it will be a positive, well-led, and compassionate day.
Sam is a fantastic doctor, and we are very lucky to have him on our team. He provides excellent support to me when I am in charge and consistently demonstrates professionalism and strong clinical skills. Sam frequently checks in with the nursing staff throughout the shift, showing outstanding teamwork and communication. He is a great role model, always leading by example, and I truly feel there’s nothing he would ask of others that he wouldn’t be willing to do himself.
Dr Sarah Kibble
Works at Torbay & South Devon
Sarah is an incredible paediatric registrar! She goes above and beyond for her patients to ensure that they receive the best possible care. Her empathy and compassion shines through in every interaction, both with patients and with colleagues. Sarah is hugely approachable and is always the first to offer help to anyone in need of support. She also takes every opportunity to teach her junior colleagues which has been hugely appreciated! No matter how busy the shift is, Sarah remains calm and focused on ensuring the very best outcomes for every child and family. She is an inspiring clinician and it is a pleasure to work alongside her!
Dr Emma Lovell
Works at North Devon District Hospital
Dr. Emma is an outstanding doctor whose professionalism, compassion, and calm presence make her an exceptional member of the paediatric team. She consistently demonstrates excellence in her work, providing safe, evidence-based, and holistic care to every child and family she encounters. Her calm and knowledgeable manner brings reassurance during even the most difficult and frightening situations she is exactly the person you want by your side when things get challenging to keep you calm and grounded.
Emma’s interactions with patients and families are exemplary. She communicates with warmth, empathy, and clarity, ensuring that families feel informed, supported, and involved in their child’s care. Her ability to connect with children, regardless of their age or condition, reflects her genuine compassion and dedication to paediatrics.
Within the team, Emma is a true role model. She demonstrates leadership through kindness and collaboration, supporting her peers and nursing colleagues with professionalism and respect. Her enthusiasm for learning and teaching enhances the whole team’s practice, and she creates an environment where everyone feels valued.
We are always delighted when Emma returns for her rotations with her pink scrunchie and stereoscope and we are genuinely sad when it’s time for her to move on. She embodies the values of the RCPCH, compassion, excellence, integrity, and teamwork, and is a doctor we are all proud to work alongside and hope to have her as our consultant one day.
Dr. Emma is, quite simply, everything you would hope for in a paediatric doctor.
Dr Rosie Lugg
Works at Torbay & South Devon
Rosie is currently working in Torbay as a registrar and is genuinely one of the loveliest people I have worked with. She is kind and supportive in every situation and always goes above and beyond in her role, helping out wherever she can to support the team.
If this wasn’t enough she is also an outstanding paediatric doctor, will a calm demeanour, making well reasoned, safe management plans whatever the presentation. I would want her looking after my sick child in a heartbeat.
Dr Pwint Lwin
Works at Royal Cornwall Hospitals
Pwint is such a dedicated SAS doctor. She is so very knowledgeable and readily shares this knowledge amongst the team, really seeking to develop the future of paeds. Pwint will include and support any colleague regardless of nursing or medical background. She recognises where someone is interested in learning and will strive to teach them what she knows. Her patient management is fantastic and she always discusses her plan with trainees so we can understand her reasoning. I’ve seen parents visibly reassured and relieved following her consultations. Clinically her skills are top notch, she is the procedure queen and our go-to for any venous access issues or challenging lumbar punctures. Always polite and courteous, it has been a pleasure to work alongside her.
Dr Jennifer Merrison-Hort
Works at University Hospitals Plymouth
Jenny has this calm confidence that anchors the team, even on the busiest days. Watching her with patients has taught me so much: how to make children comfortable being examined, how to speak to them in a way they actually understand, and how to bring warmth into every interaction. Jenny is a total badass, but she does it with this fun, playful energy that lifts everyone around her. She explains medical information to parents clearly and kindly. Never rushed, never condescending and you can feel the trust she builds with families. She’s warm, approachable, and genuinely uplifting. A ball of sunshine in the middle of a busy ward. She’s also an incredible role model for juniors. I’ve learnt how to work in a team just by watching her. She makes you feel capable and supported. She creates space for everyone to learn and contribute, and I always feel at ease knowing she’s around.
When I first joined as a new trainee, Jenny quickly became my go-to. Not only because she was assigned that role, but because that’s just who she is. Whether it’s advice on studying, portfolios, or how to navigate the system, she’s generous with her time and genuinely cares about helping others grow.
She makes you feel seen, capable, and part of something bigger.
Jenny truly embodies what it means to influence, include, innovate, and inspire and she makes it all look effortless.
Dr Mohamed Omara
Works at University Hospitals Plymouth
Mohamed cares so much about his patients like, truly. It’s the first thing you notice about him. He’s so thoughtful and systematic in his approach as a doctor, and it shows in every part of his work. I’m constantly in awe of how easily he builds rapport with everyone. From the kids, to the parents, the nurses, and his colleagues it just comes naturally to him. We once had a child who was absolutely sick of doctors and would cry the moment anyone tried to examine him. Mohamed turned it into a game, and somehow managed a full examination without a single tear. It was like watching magic. He brings that same dedication to every part of his work. You’ll see him spend time carefully assessing a patient, then sit down afterwards and work his hardest to make sure they get the best care possible. You can tell he carries his patients with him not in a heavy way, but because he genuinely wants to get it right for them. I feel like I have so much to learn from him, and I already am. Watching how he combines kindness, skill, and quiet determination has genuinely shaped how I want to practise medicine.
Dr Ravi Poorun
Works at Royal Devon & Exeter Hospital
Offers help all the time
Gives detailed clear guidance, not a fan of ‘political’ answers with plenty of I think maybe how about ect, this showes he is confident and sincere.
Dr Alicia Regan
Works at Royal Devon & Exeter Hospital
Alicia is an exceptional doctor and an even more exceptional person. She combines kindness, confidence, and compassion in a way that motivates everyone around her. Clinically, she is outstanding — calm under pressure, meticulous in her care, and always generous with her teaching. She has a unique ability to make complex situations clear, turning each encounter into a learning opportunity that leaves others more capable and confident.
As a leader, Alicia brings people together with ease. She leads with quiet strength and humility, giving others space to grow while offering reassurance when needed. She is acutely aware of the abilities and emotions within the team, creating an atmosphere where everyone feels valued. On the neonatal unit, her steady presence lifts morale, even during the toughest shifts, and her thoughtful guidance helps the whole team perform at their best.
Her interactions with patients and families are truly remarkable. Alicia uses imaginative and creative approaches to connect with children and explain care plans to parents in ways that are compassionate and clear. She reads situations instinctively, adapting her communication to meet each family’s needs with understanding and grace.
Alicia’s influence is felt in every corner of the ward. She brings out the best in those around her through her calm leadership, thoughtful teaching, and unwavering empathy. She is the kind of doctor who quietly changes how others think, work, and care — and I feel incredibly lucky to have learned from her.
Alicia has a naturally kind and caring energy that instantly puts others at ease, making her someone you want by your side in an emergency. Her calm and composed nature allows her to handle high-pressure situations with confidence and professionalism, demonstrating excellence in the fulfilment of her work in paediatrics. Alicia’s compassion is truly remarkable—she always takes the time to provide reassurance and support to patients and families, particularly those who are anxious or vulnerable. She embodies the values of the RCPCH through her empathy, respect, and commitment to delivering exceptional care. Alicia is also an exemplary team player and leader, offering guidance and encouragement to her peers and always making herself available to answer questions or lend a helping hand. Her supportive presence and positive attitude make her an outstanding role model, and knowing she is on shift brings reassurance and confidence to both colleagues and families alike.
Dr Caroline Rose
Works at Royal Cornwall Hospitals
Caroline is one of our excellent SAS doctors who does so much for the department. She’ll often arrive in a whirlwind onto an exceptionally busy unit where she’ll immediately get stuck right in, often with some of the most challenging cases which she handles with apparent ease. Patient flow will always improve once she’s about! Her clinical skills are fantastic and she is incredibly knowledgeable, especially in regard to her metabolic specialty; she will not hesitate to explain any questions we have about it. Caroline is very supportive of teaching has been organising an annual joint sim day between paeds, ITU and ED for the last few years which have proved remarkably beneficial and led to lots of discussion and change in practice. She is very approachable and I never feel I have a stupid question for her because she’ll always take that moment to teach!
Dr Thomas Senior
Works at University Hospitals Plymouth
Tom never fails to maintain a positive attitude at work and is always a joy to work with. His interaction with children and families are filled with genuine kindness, and understanding, and making each child and family feel heard and valued. A good team player, he sees tasks to completion, and is easily approachable both by staff and patients. He is a role model to junior trainees.
Dr Daisy Stevens
Works at University Hospitals Plymouth
Dr. Daisy Stevens consistently demonstrates excellence in her work within the Paediatric Emergency Department at Derriford Hospital. She goes above and beyond for her patients and the nursing team, ensuring that every child and family receives the highest standard of compassionate, efficient and safe care. Her clinical expertise and calm, reassuring manner are evident in every interaction, particularly during high-pressure situations.
Daisy is an outstanding team player and leader. She runs paediatric resuscitations with exceptional composure, clear communication and strong leadership, creating an environment where everyone knows their role and feels supported. She is always approachable, considerate, and deeply respectful of the nursing and multidisciplinary teams, making her a valued role model for others.
Her advocacy for both patients and staff is second to none. She ensures that every voice is heard and that decisions are made in the best interests of the children and families we care for. Daisy’s communication with families is exemplary; she takes time to listen, explain, and comfort, making even the most difficult moments a little easier for those involved.
Dr. Stevens truly embodies the values of the RCPCH—compassion, integrity, respect, and excellence. She is a joy to work alongside, and every shift with her is not only a learning opportunity but a genuine pleasure. Her dedication, empathy, and professionalism make her an outstanding representative of paediatric emergency medicine at Derriford Hospital.
Dr Ollie Swadling
Works at North Devon District Hospital
Dr. Ollie exemplifies excellence in paediatrics through his outstanding clinical knowledge, calm professionalism, and genuine compassion. He consistently goes above and beyond for his patients, their families, and the wider healthcare team. His commitment to providing safe, high-quality care is evident in every interaction, whether he is making complex decisions under pressure or taking extra time to ensure families feel fully informed and supported.
Ollie demonstrates true leadership and teamwork on the ward. He is approachable, collaborative, and always willing to support colleagues, whether nursing, medical, or allied health. His clear explanations and inclusive manner foster a sense of trust and unity within the team. Many of us feel more confident and valued because of his guidance and encouragement.
With parents and carers, Ollie’s communication is exemplary. He takes time to explain diagnoses and treatment plans thoroughly, ensuring understanding and reassurance during what can be stressful and emotional times. His kind, respectful approach consistently leaves families feeling heard, supported, and safe in his care.
Dr. Ollie embodies the values of the Royal College of Paediatrics and Child Health, compassion, integrity, excellence, and respect. His dedication to holistic, child- and family-centred care inspires those around him and makes a profound difference to the lives of the children and families he supports. Ollie is an exceptional doctor, an inspiring role model, and a truly deserving nominee for this award.
Dr Christopher Ugwu
Works at University Hospitals Plymouth
Dr Christopher Ugwu is an exceptional paediatric trainee who demonstrates outstanding commitment to education, clinical excellence, and teamwork. He is an excellent teacher who explains complex concepts clearly and supports colleagues with patience and enthusiasm. His expertise in performing echocardiograms (ECHOs) in babies sets him apart, and he willingly shares this skill to enhance the confidence and competence of others.
Dr Ugwu’s leadership qualities are evident in the positive and supportive environment he fosters within the department. When I first joined the team, his guidance and encouragement helped me to settle in quickly. He is always approachable, reliable, and willing to help, consistently going above and beyond to support both patients and colleagues. Above all, his warm personality and constant smile create a pleasant, motivating atmosphere that embodies the values of paediatrics and inspires everyone around him. He truly represents the spirit of this award. Christopher has demonstrated exceptional dedication to paediatric training and education within the NHS. His commitment to supporting both UK-trained and international medical graduates (IMGs) has made a significant and lasting impact on paediatric learning and professional development.
Since June 2023, Christopher has consistently organised and delivered comprehensive teaching sessions for paediatric resident doctors preparing for the MRCPCH Clinical examinations. His structured teaching approach, mentorship, and ongoing support have contributed to markedly improved success rates, particularly among foreign-trained paediatric trainees who often face unique challenges when adapting to NHS practice. Beyond his educational contributions, Christopher has shown outstanding initiative in clinical improvement and evidence-based practice. He has developed a guideline on the management of neonatal ectopics and is currently leading an audit and review of patent ductus arteriosus (PDA) treatment in preterm neonates—work that has enhanced both patient safety and the quality of neonatal care within his unit. Christopher is widely respected for his professionalism, empathy, and leadership.
He leads by example, fostering a positive and inclusive learning environment for trainees and colleagues alike. Always willing to go above and beyond his duties, he exemplifies the values of dedication, teamwork, and excellence that underpin paediatric care and training. Christopher’s contributions have not only strengthened training outcomes but have also inspired a culture of continuous learning and improvement within his team. He is a truly deserving candidate for the Paediatrics Award for Training Achievement.
Dr Mairi Vella
Works at Royal Cornwall Hospitals
Mairi is an exceptional doctor who goes above and beyond every single day for the children and families on our Paediatric Oncology ward. Her clinical knowledge, skills, and compassion are incredible, but it is the little extras she brings to her care and the way she advocates for the families that makes her truly remarkable.
She takes the time to build trust with families at the most difficult moments of their lives, listening with patience, explaining with clarity, and always advocating for the needs of her patients. Her ability to combine medical excellence with deep empathy makes a huge difference to children and their families and this is fed back time and time again from both the patient’s and their parents.
Mairi is an amazing teacher, whether it’s with the nursing team on the ward, the medical students or the rest of the medical team. She is always willing to share her expertise, supporting colleagues of all grades with kindness and encouragement. She never hesitates to offer support or take an extra few minutes to explain something even when she’s busy herself.
Her dedication, compassion, and leadership make her an outstanding role model. She not only improves the journey of the children and families she cares for but also strengthens the entire team around her.
Dr Hannah Walsh
Hannah joined our department and was thrown into the deep end straight away. She made a positive impact from day one. Coming from a children’s hospital her weather of knowledge gained the trust of our nursing team immediately and we were always reassured when we knew Hannah was on shift. She took the time to get to know the team, attending our team outings and always being willing to support our own learning and development. Nothing was ever too much and she quickly became part of our Paeds ED family.
Hannah continuously looks for opportunities to enhance her own learning and knowledge and in January spent a voluntary 4 weeks in Africa supporting a local hospital, caring for sick children in a deprived country.
Hannah shows empathy and compassion in every interaction that she has with patients and their families. She understands how frightening it can be for a child and their family when they are unwell and always goes the extra mile to enable assessments and treatments to be as positive experience as possible. Hannah takes the time to listen to their worries, making sure they feel heard and understood and responds in a way that provides comfort and promotes confidence in the care the child is receiving while also supporting shared decision making. Hannah’s calm and caring presence helps families to feel safe and supported in what can be the most difficult and upsetting times of there lives. Hannah, your ability to put families at ease and reassure young patients is a observed by all around you.
Hannah manages resus patients and a busy emergency department with ease, she is able to lead a team effectively in often high pressured situations as well as utilising the team she has around her.
Hannah recently secured a consultant position at Alder Hey Children Hospital and has left a huge hole within our team. Hannah you will always be apart of our Paeds ED team.
Dr Rebecca Williams
Works at North Devon District Hospital
Not long until Becca is a consultant and I think she’ll be great! Kind and holistic in her care.
Rebecca has only been in North Devon for a short amount of time but already is able to create an atmosphere of calm and control. She’s incredibly competent, approachable and hardworking. She has great working relationships with the whole team and everyone loves when she’s on the ward.
I would like to nominate Becca Williams for her outstanding contribution to Paediatrics. Becca consistently demonstrates excellence in her role, delivering compassionate, knowledgeable, and patient-centred care. Her dedication to the wellbeing of children and their families is clear in every interaction. She communicates with warmth and clarity, ensuring families feel supported during even the most difficult times. Becca is also an exemplary team player and leader. She is always approachable, respectful, and values the input of every team member. As a nurse, I’ve personally felt empowered and supported by her presence on shift. She doesn’t hesitate to step in, whether it’s offering clinical advice, emotional support, or simply helping with a busy workload. Her ability to lead while still being a true team player makes her a role model for junior staff and peers alike.
One moment that particularly stands out was when a child sadly passed away during a shift. Becca was by my side throughout the entire process and never left me to face it alone. Her calm presence, clinical guidance, and emotional support were unwavering. I was able to call on her at any point, and she always responded with compassion and clarity. She was also a tremendous support to the family, providing reassurance, explaining things gently, and ensuring they felt cared for in an incredibly difficult time. Her strength and empathy helped guide both staff and family through that heart-breaking experience, and I’ve seen her offer that same level of care and support time and time again. Becca Williams exemplifies the very best of Paediatrics, clinically excellent, emotionally intelligent, and deeply committed to her colleagues, patients, and their families.
~
Back to all categories
~
We use the nomination text and categories as provided by those who submit the nomination.
If there are any issues with the nomination pages (errors, people placed in the wrong category or any other concerns) please email s.janoff@nhs.net
~
We will use the following criteria for creating the shortlist and choosing the final winner:
Senior Hero
1. Demonstrates excellence in fulfilment of their work in Paediatrics
2. Demonstrates exemplary team working, leadership, role-modelling and support to peers
3. Demonstrates excellence in their interaction with patients and their families
4. Embodies the values of the RCPCH
PAFTAs 