This is the list of Teams (big or small) who were nominated for truly inspiring; exemplify MDT team working, leadership, innovation and excellent care of both their patients and each other.
Click on the names to display/hide the nomination text
North Devon Teams
Caroline Thorpe Nursing Team
Is a team at North Devon District Hospital
A brilliant team. Love working with you!
Caroline Thorpe Play Team
Is a team at North Devon District Hospital
The most visible play team in a DGH I’ve ever experienced. Fantastic people and they work for the families best interests. Work wonders with scans without sedation for young children.
Caroline Thorpe Ward
Is a team at North Devon District Hospital
A fantastic group of hard working, kind and fun people. They advocate for children and parents fantastically. I love working with them!
The Caroline Thorpe Ward team is small but mighty a shining example of teamwork, compassion, and dedication in paediatric care. No matter the challenges, the team always comes together, supporting one another to ensure our patients and families receive the highest standard of care. Whether it’s covering shifts, adapting to changes in skill mix, or stepping up during busy periods, every member of the team gives their all with professionalism, kindness, and good humour.
Internal teamwork is at the heart of the ward. Staff share their knowledge freely, learn from each other, and create an environment where everyone feels valued and supported. When faced with challenging patients or difficult situations, the team unites with empathy and resilience, ensuring that care is both safe and compassionate.
The Caroline Thorpe team also works seamlessly with the wider multidisciplinary team, building strong relationships with colleagues across departments to deliver holistic, family-centred care. They advocate tirelessly for children and young people, always striving to improve the care and experiences of patients and their families.
Parents frequently tell us that returning to the ward feels like “coming home”,a true reflection of the warmth, consistency, and excellence that define this remarkable team.
The Caroline Thorpe Ward truly embodies the values of this award and is a deserving recipient of the Team of the Year Award.
Caroline Thorpe ward have an exceptional team who go over and above for all their patients. This is demonstrated on a daily basis , whether this is supporting a young person who is dysregulated , proving intensive care stabilisation to a sick baby in HDU , our play specialists supporting a child to undertake a MRI scan without sedation , or our ward clerks who are often first point of contact for our patients- who provide a calm manner when entering the ward. Each team member demonstrates innovation by undertaking each task with high standards of care having the greatest impact on the service provided.
The ward would not be able to function in such a positive manner without input from each of our team, effective teamworking is crucial for improving our patients outcomes and maintaining staff well-being especially when working under pressure.
The team have a passion for learning and regularly undertake any training that is offered to ensure the care they provide is evidence based care, this ranges from study days provided by BCH, safeguarding courses or in house training to ensure that patients can receive NG feeds under restraint.
I am proud to see our MDT working seamlessly with the wider team around the hospital and outside agencies- where care is planned collaboratively, treatment is better targeted , complications are reduced and care delivered is patient centred for all our patients and their families.
I am very proud to be leading such an amazing team that shows dedication, compassion and resilience every day .
Neonatal Outreach Team
Is a team at North Devon District Hospital
A small but mighty team. Support families where they need to be.
Dietetic Team
Is a team at North Devon District Hospital
A great team. Has built up over the last few years in number and are involved in so many important areas.
North Devon Mental Health Team
Is a team at North Devon District Hospital
Claire and Jess are a small but mighty little team. They support the main ward excellently with our CAMHS patient and in particular challenging disordered eating patients. They make time for staff updates each month and are a visible presence on the ward also. Jess has been a welcome addition in recent months and is always checking in on ward staff and providing help with meal supports if ward acuity is high. This is a major help to the ward. She brings excellent knowledge and skills from her time as school nurse of over recent years. Claire’s hard work in the formulation of hospital passports for complex patients has helped both patient journeys and staff morale and clarity. We couldn’t function on the ward without them.
North Devon Play Team
Is a team at North Devon District Hospital
The Play Team consistently demonstrates exceptional teamwork, compassion, and dedication in supporting children and young people through often daunting hospital experiences. Their outstanding work with MRI preparation is particularly impressive they help children understand procedures, reduce anxiety, and often avoid the need for sedation through play-based techniques and reassurance savings thousands for the NHS and reducing the impact of the child and their families.
Within their own team, they collaborate seamlessly, sharing ideas and supporting one another to provide the best possible experience for every child. They also model excellent multidisciplinary teamwork, working closely with nurses, doctors, radiographers, and families to ensure care is child-centred and coordinated.
The Play Team are passionate advocates for children and young people, always striving to improve care and communication across services. Their warmth, creativity, and professionalism embody the values of the Royal College of Paediatrics and Child Health, making them an essential and much-loved part of the hospital community.
Paediatric Secretarial Team
Is a team at North Devon District Hospital
Outstanding resilience, teamwork and absolutely amazing patient/parent care. I am so proud of the Paediatric secretaries, in the current climate they have strived for excellence being a completely depleted team often down to two secretaries for a team of 10+ Consultants and they never waivered. They kept the standards up and soldiered on!
Special Care Baby Unit
Is a team at North Devon District Hospital
Although small (if you’ve been there, you’ll know!), SCBU make the biggest of impacts to the neonates and families of North Devon.
The team have had another challenging year in their (tiny) unit, faced by staff shortages, the financial climate, and the merger of trusts. The team are a tight-knit family, supporting each other through challenges, covering shortages to ensure that the unit runs as safely and as smoothly, and ultimately always striving for the best possible care. New safety huddles and better communication with other teams has made the care of infants and children across the whole Ladywell unit much improved. They are encouraging of one another, friendly and kind. Families often say that it feels like ‘home’. The Outreach team then continue the great work to ensure families transition into the community seamlessly.
The merger of two trusts has been a challenge, but open and positive attitudes, hard work and exceptional interaction with other teams, have helped to develop new cross site guidance and new educational opportunities. Working in a remote neonatal unit definitely poses its own challenges, but the ethos of the team to change for the better, means that the team keeps evolving and are always striving for the best.
Over the past year, their hard work and determination to improve has seen them achieve both their Silver Bliss Baby Charter Accreditation and their Stage 3 Baby Friendly Initiative, with work already going on towards the next awards. The team are always advocating for families in neonatal care.
They are amazing!
Youth Work Team
Is a team at North Devon District Hospital
Such a great team. You work so hard to get alongside young people and so what clinicians can’t do! We just wish we had more of you.
Cornwall Teams
ANNP Team
Is a team at Royal Cornwall Hospitals
The Advanced Neonatal Nurse Practitioner (ANNP) team are an extraordinary group whose dedication, innovation, and professionalism have had a transformative impact on neonatal care. They consistently demonstrate resilience, leadership, and compassion, ensuring the highest standards of safety and support across the department.
During a period of significant staffing crisis, the ANNP team stepped forward to bridge the nursing shortfall in QIS staffing while simultaneously maintaining Tier 1 and Tier 2 rota commitments. Their adaptability and commitment safeguarded the unit during one of its most challenging times.
Beyond their clinical excellence, the team are inspirational educators and mentors. They lead weekly multidisciplinary simulations with full MDT and midwifery input, alongside regular education sessions across the perinatal department. As NLS instructors, they provide vital neonatal life support training to the entire MDT, strengthening skills and confidence across the workforce.
The ANNP team also drive research and innovation, spearheading projects such as SURFSUP (non‑invasive curosurf administration), advancing evidence‑based practice that directly improves patient outcomes. Their leadership extended further during the junior doctor strikes, where they ensured continuity of care and departmental safety, exemplifying professionalism under pressure.
Over the past year, they have navigated change with empathy and efficiency, supporting retirements, career progression, and welcoming new nurses into the practitioner pathway. Their professionalism and compassion radiate throughout the unit, creating a culture of excellence that inspires colleagues and reassures families.
In summary, the ANNP team are not only the backbone of neonatal care delivery but also inspirational leaders in education, research, and resilience.
Fistral/CLIC/Harlyn
Is a team at Royal Cornwall Hospitals
Fistral/Clic/Harlyn Team what can I say….
Over the past year this group of individuals has consistently demonstrated excellence, innovation and resilience setting the gold standard of what a team should look like.
After joining this team around 3 years ago I was nervous about how I would be accepted as a new manager but from the outset Team Fistral has embraced me, tackled every challenge with me with determination, unity and navigated complex patients and processes above and beyond expectations.
The collective efforts have not only driven outstanding patient care but have had a lasting effect on many Children and their families not only when on the ward but with some families through the toughest months of their lives after receiving an oncological diagnosis.
The teams ability to stay aligned, motivated and supportive of one another especially during challenges reflects are rare and inspiring energy.
I could not be prouder to be part of Fistral and hope to be for years to come !!
Absolutely awesome team to be a part of always going above and beyond for all paediatric patients and their families not to mention our team
Gwithian Unit
Is a team at Royal Cornwall Hospitals
Gwithian unit is small but mighty!
I would like to nominate all everyone who is part of the Gwithian Unit team.
All members of the team ensure that they are working to a high standard and ensure that the child is at the centre of everything we do.
The team are valued and respected for their contribution to the unit by their colleagues, the patients and the families they care for and interact with.
We ensure we advocate for the children and young people we look after to deliver the best care possible.
Even if we are short staffed the team approach the shift with a smile and a can-do attitude. This is often reflected in the ward feedback we receive with comments about how friendly and inclusive the staff are no matter how busy we are. This is the feedback that makes me so proud to lead such a fantastic and dynamic team.
When there is a challenging situation the team pull together and manage it by putting the patients first and supporting one another both during and after the event. Everyone’s experience is taken into account and the support they offer each other is second to none.
The team always act with integrity and are open and honest. They work hard to ensure that all of our children and young people feel listened to and are advocated for.
Each team member brings a different strength, whether it is practical, organisational, technical or computer skills, they all contribute in their own way but most of all it is all done with professionalism, humour and kindness.
I am very proud to work with this team and really feel that the they deserve to be recognised for their contribution, hard work and dedication to paediatrics at RCHT.
Neonatal Infant Feeding Team
Is a team at Royal Cornwall Hospitals
I am nominating the Neonatal Infant Feeding Team for Team of the Year because they represent so much more than feeding support. Their work touches every part of a family’s journey through neonatal care. In a service where they are constantly in high demand, they continue to deliver an exceptional level of compassion, patience, and genuine humanity.
They care not only for our babies, but for parents who are often overwhelmed, anxious, and exhausted. The team provides reassurance, comfort, and confidence at moments when families need it most. Their ability to balance specialist expertise with warmth and empathy is remarkable, and their presence makes an immeasurable difference on the unit every single day.
Despite the pressures of their workload, they never make anyone feel rushed or alone. They listen, they encourage, they empower, and they advocate. Their dedication transforms what could be one of the most difficult experiences for families into one that feels supported, understood, and full of hope.
The Neonatal Infant Feeding Team are truly amazing. Their skill, compassion, and unwavering commitment make them not only deserving of recognition, but essential to the exceptional care our unit provides. They are, without question, Team of the Year.
Neonatal Unit
Is a team at Royal Cornwall Hospitals
I am so proud to work for RCHT Neonatal Unit. Despite facing unprecedented staffing pressures over the past year, the team continues to deliver the highest standard of care to every baby and family we care for. The entire multi-disciplinary team work cohesively, both together and alongside a plethora of allied health professionals, dedicated and with unwavering compassion, no matter how challenging or difficult the shift becomes.
I feel so lucky to work within a team who pulls together during the hardest shifts. We truly are a family who focuses on supporting one another. There is mutual respect across the team and despite the high pressures, the team has unfaltering professionalism and a commitment to be there for one another.
The Neonatal team continue to work tirelessly to enhance the unit environment and create a safe space for families. The MDT work together across the team, and have purchased a twin pushchair, new comfortable chairs for the nurseries, each of the rooming in rooms has had a wonderful revamp, new furnishings and welcoming decoration, the corridors have been refreshed with picturesque Cornish images and softened lighting. The team have also emphasised the importance of the unit library and a sibling corner, with each incentive focusing on family integration to support families navigating life on the neonatal unit. The introduction of music sessions for families and babies has become a highlight of the week, which bring moments of joy, calm, and connection that are treasured by all who attend. This, alongside dedicated and specialist baby massage provision within the nursing team, brings a little bit of home into the ward. There are many plans in the pipeline to create family spaces and dedicated family sessions, emphasising the Neonatal team’s dedication to deliver the highest quality care.
We have an amazing Neonatal Infant Feeding team (NIFT!) provision within our Neonatal Team. They are INCREDIBLE and they should be celebrated! Their consistent passion for all things infant feeding is contagious and their willingness to share knowledge, information and to guide the team to support families is invaluable.
The support within the Neonatal team is amazing. They have a dedicated TRIM team who offer continued support following traumatic and stressful events. This support network is invaluable and their open door policy is second to none. The team extends across medical, management and nursing team and are always there for anything we need. We are so lucky to have the dedicated team around us.
RCHT Neonatal Unit has a fantastic multi-disciplinary Education team who are dedicated to supporting the team to grow and develop, constantly striving to improve the neonatal care provided. Alongside weekly journal club, hub+spoke Thursday teaching, SIM and NLS, this year has seen a huge drive in providing Collaborative Learning in Practice (CLIP) shifts. This drive provides 1:1 support across the unit for QIS trainees in intensive and high dependency care, and new starters. The provision of CLIP also enables support for all team members to take ownership of nurseries to realise their full potential and flourish within the team. Despite the staffing pressures the Neonatal team have faced, the dedication across the whole team to provide tea trolley teaching and cotside teaching across all job roles shines, emphasising their passion in continuing to develop and provide five star care for the families.
The Neonatal education support has extended to the Neonatal Transitional Care ward with direct provision on the ward, which is invaluable in upskilling the team to keep babies and families together and facilitate smooth transition across NNU and TCW. The teams work together, which has also meant that there has been dedicated focus on the Neonatal Foundation Program for all new starters on NNU and TCW, meaning the care provision remains the highest standard!
We are so lucky to have such a dedicated nursing and medical team who go out of their way to provide the best care possible. The NNU team is made up of various specialist groups who go above and beyond for the families and our team. Each specialist interest group is made up of medical, management and nursing team members who work together with a focused interest and passion – this covers equipment, discharge planning, developmental care, and bereavement to name just a few, who deliver training sessions, maintain guidelines, upkeep equipment and grab-bag packs to ensure efficient and smooth effective delivery of care. This is carried out alongside clinical care duties and truly shows the dedication of all team members to maintain the high standards of care the Neonatal Unit are known for!
The Neonatal Team have had a tough year with lots of maternity leave, sickness, staff changes, wonderful team members starting their well deserved retirement as well as high acuity and pressures felt across the network. Despite this, the team have continued to give it their all every single day, going above and beyond to advocate for the infants and families within their care. The teamwork is so apparent across the Neonatal Team as absolutely everyone has stepped up!
The care provided is exceptional and is underpinned by the fundamental values of compassionate care and teamwork. The neonatal team embody the very best of neonatal care, and their impact on babies and families is immeasurable. For their exceptional efforts, their unwavering commitment, and their extraordinary spirit, the Neonatal Unit is profoundly deserving of the Team of the Year award.
Polkerris Ward
Is a team at Royal Cornwall Hospitals
The Polkerris nurses are a warm, welcoming, and hardworking team who always put children, young people, and their families first. They create a positive and safe environment where everyone feels valued and supported.
You only need to spend a short time on Polkerris to see how well the team works together. They look out for one another, step in without hesitation when someone needs help, and celebrate each other’s successes. Their unity, care, and respect keep the ward running smoothly and help protect staff wellbeing in such an emotionally demanding role.
The team work closely with paediatric doctors, therapists, and other departments to ensure every child receives the best possible care. Their friendly, professional approach and strong communication build trust and collaboration across the hospital.
Caring for unwell children is a vocation, and the team never loses sight of why they do what they do. They’re passionate about making sure every child’s voice is heard and every family feels supported. Whether it’s comforting a worried parent or brightening a young patient’s day, their compassion shines through in everything they do.
The Polkerris nursing team truly live the values of the RCPCH – respect, compassion, honesty, and teamwork – with a constant commitment to making things better. Polkerris is more than a ward; it’s a family, and this exceptional team is so deserving of the Team of the Year Award.
best team. Always takes every patient. Spontaneous. Works as a broader team with ed and pau and other wards
I have the privilege of managing this fantastic team of nurses and Healthcare Support Workers (HCSWs), and I am continually humbled by their unwavering dedication, teamwork, and compassionate approach to care.
Since moving to RCHT from another NHS Trust in London, I have been genuinely overwhelmed by this team’s strength, resilience, and clinical excellence. I came with preconceived notions about what to expect, and I am proud to say I was entirely wrong. This team has surpassed every expectation.
What stands out most is that they are often unaware of just how skilled and capable they are. Their advanced clinical competencies, critical thinking, and ability to manage complex caseloads place them among the most effective and efficient teams I’ve encountered. Compared to other nursing teams I’ve worked with, the scope and complexity of care they manage daily is exceptional.
Their work clearly aligns with the RCPCH vision of creating a healthier future for children and young people. They advocate for patients and families every single day, ensuring safe, high-quality, and compassionate care. Their commitment to excellence is evident in everything they do—from clinical practice to patient engagement—and they continuously seek opportunities for learning and improvement.
This is a team that embraces collaboration, not only supporting one another but also contributing to the wider multidisciplinary team. They show integrity in their practice, openness in communication, and a strong sense of responsibility for delivering the best outcomes for children and their families. Their quiet confidence and humility only add to the depth of their professionalism.
It is an honour to lead such a dedicated, skilled, and compassionate team. They represent the very best of paediatric nursing and embody the core values of the RCPCH in both spirit and action.
Tintagel Ward
Is a team at Royal Cornwall Hospitals
This team is a prime example of how a team should pull together through tough times.
This team have been very underrated in recent years but still strides forward with providing the best care and compassion to RCHT.
This team goes above and beyond every single hour of the day to make sure patients have the upmost care, support and understanding of their treatment whilst on this ward.
Everyone involved on this ward from HCAs, nurses, doctors and physio staff, occupational therapist, ward leader and deputies have the patients best interests at heart 110% and pull together as a team always.
This ward can be challenging at times but going hand in hand be the most rewarding ward.
Again I would like to express my gratitude and appreciation to be part of the team here. I am so proud.
This is the very snippet of information I can give you about this team. Words can never be expressed enough just how hard this team works.
Torbay Teams
Child Health Secretaries and Ttyping Assistants
Is a team at Torbay & South Devon
I am nominating the amazing Child Health Secretaries and Typing Assistants for their outstanding contribution to our service. Working alongside them, I see every day how hard they work and how much they care about making a difference for children, young people, their families, as well as the organisation it takes to co-ordinate consultant schedules and delegate tasks effectively.
This team demonstrates exceptional internal teamwork, always supporting one another through busy workloads and constant challenges. No matter how demanding the day, they stay calm, positive, and focused, ensuring that the service continues to run smoothly.
They also model excellent collaboration with the wider MDT, maintaining strong communication with doctors, nurses, and allied professionals to keep care coordinated and efficient. Their professionalism and reliability make them an essential part of the wider paediatric team.
Most importantly, they consistently advocate for children and young people, ensuring timely, accurate documentation and communication that directly supports better care. They genuinely reflect the RCPCH values of excellence, integrity, equity, partnership, and innovation, demonstrated through their resilience, compassion, and strong sense of teamwork.
This team is an inspiration to work with and truly deserving of this recognition.
Louisa Cary Ward
Is a team at Torbay & South Devon
We have had an incredibly challenging few years, we have stuck together & for through it for out patients & our team. We have shown resilience, dedication & passion to provide the best possible care to our patients, under incredibly challenging circumstances.
Louisa Cary Play Specialists
Is a team at Torbay & South Devon
The wonderful play specialists on Louisa Cary, SSPAU, DSU and Outpatients are super human and a crucial part of many teams across paediatrics. They are a tight knit team who are well known and loved across many MDTs, whether it’s the nursing teams, surgical teams or other specialties.
They go above and beyond on a daily basis ensuring that every patient, parent and carer are looked after and reassured be it with talking, games or lego.
Their presence on the wards, day surgery and outpatients is infectious and they will appear in a flash when bleeped.
It is lovely to see the relationships they have with our regular patients and also how quickly the build bonds with new patients. They always strive to improve the care given to the patients. Everyone’s stay is better with them around.
The organisation that goes on behind the scenes ensures that children can have a supportive pre-visit for reassurance before a procedure and this has allowed for success and a positive memory for the future.
Nothing is too much trouble for them and they fill the wards with smiles and joy for everyone.
Thank you for being part of our wider team
Paediatric Specialist Nursing Team
Is a team at Torbay & South Devon
Small team of unsung hero’s working collectively in the background supporting patients and their families with specialist nursing needs to aid in the prevention of hospital admissions, support care provisions at home, school, college and as the young person gains independence enabling them to take a leading role in their care needs to support them in optimising their lives when managing a chronic health condition. The team being so small are exceptional in covering and supporting each other when needed, being aware of each individuals work and home pressures. Providing a safe space for all to share any burdens and help facilitate any changes that may be needed. The team liaise with a vast range of MDT’s in the hospital setting, community and specialist centres, advocating patient care and striving to make changes or just being adaptable to support individuals and family care needs.
Special Care Baby Unit
Is a team at Torbay & South Devon
SCBU is a brilliant neonatal team made up of outstanding Nurses, Nursery nurses, ward clerk and housekeeping staff.
Staff show exceptional communication with each other and the families with whom they support.
They are empathetic, caring and provide world class individualised neonatal care to every baby and their family.
The team work together well to create the safest and most supportive start to life.
The Staff support each other through difficult experiences and are led by managers who celebrate good practice and advocate for innovation and growth.
Each and every person is committed to providing the best care and it is such a huge privilege to work alongside them.
Speech, Language and Communication (SLC) pathway (CFHD)
Is a team at Torbay & South Devon
The whole Speech, Language and Communication (SLC) team have united and transformed the way they work across Devon. This has been via the implementation of The Balanced System®. This is a system wide framework linking in with partners including settings, local authorities, and families. The change has seen a huge reduction in waiting lists for under 5s with some localities now offering appointments within a few weeks.
Under 5s are offered initial easy access drop ins which are sessions run by 2 members of the team and clear outcomes are given at the end. This has led to closer working between teams and other multiagency partners.
The team have come together to implement the change with a drive to provide the best care possible. The aim has been to deliver appropriate care, at the right time and in the right setting for the child/young person. This is being achieved as we are now using community sites where children are familiar being within which eases anxiety seen in some clinical settings. Children can revisit the drop ins which ensures parents know support is available ongoing.
For school age children, the therapists are involved in the link therapist model which ensures each school across Devon has access to a named therapist and a range of support. The teams have again pulled together to ensure that training packages and appropriate support is available both face to face and online.
The team have done amazingly this year with local families really seeing the benefit.
SSPAU
Is a team at Torbay & South Devon
The team on SSPAU at Torbay, whilst small, is the best team I have ever worked with. There is a clear goal to deliver safe care and every team member strives to achieve this in their every day work.
From the ACPs, to the ward clerks and nursing team every single one contributes meaningfully to be the most amazing team and this is shown by the resident doctors feedback from their time working on SSPAU.
The parents and children would definitely agree, there are many regular attenders who feel like they are part of the SSPAU family every time they visit, this is shown in the many positive friends and family feedback we get.
SSPAU is a great place to work, the team which includes the ward clerk, HCA, two registered nurses, a resident doctor and an Advanced practitioner and a supporting consultant work so closely together to ensure the patients are cared for to the highest standards. As well as working well in their team they aim to support the emergency department by trying to move children out of their as quickly as possible to ensure good patient flow. The SSPAU manager strives for continued improvement and involves the whole team in making this happen. Every team member on SSPAU advocates for their patients and strives to deliver excellent patient care, addressing any concerns that arise, ensuring that patients are seen by the right team in a timely manner and keeping them updated and included in their care. Every family is treated fairly and with respect and reasonable adjustment’s are made for those families that need them. This is a team that cares deeply for their patients, families and colleagues and it shows in everything they do.
Special Care Baby Unit Nursing Team
Is a team at Torbay & South Devon
I have never before had the privilege of working with a team so welcoming and supportive. Over the past year, they have seamlessly integrated new staff members transitioning from adult nursing and midwifery. The shift to neonatal care is profound, yet this team has been outstanding in providing the necessary training and support to facilitate our successful transition.
The team’s ability to prioritize patient care is evident during significant events on the unit or in the delivery suite. Regardless of concurrent demands, they unfailingly pull together to ensure every baby receives the care they need, sharing the load and supporting one another—it is truly awe-inspiring to witness. This collaborative spirit extends beyond our unit, demonstrated by their excellent teamwork with the wider Multidisciplinary Team on the postnatal ward and delivery suite.
While some may consider their actions “just their job,” their approach is what sets them apart. They deliver care with unmatched empathy, compassion, dedication, and commitment, ensuring babies and families have the best possible experience. Their sense of community and genuine care for one another is palpable daily. This culture of kindness and attentiveness, which is also nurtured by spending time together outside of work, significantly strengthens the team’s effectiveness. They are quick to welcome, slow to judge, and genuinely exceptional people.
Children’s Diabetes Team
Is a team at Torbay & South Devon
Torbay Children’s Diabetes team are a close knit team. All members of the team are passionate about providing great care, individually fantastic in their job roles and come together to form a team that is progressive, patient/family centred and supportive. Optimising patient care is at the front of everything, and this is evidenced with ongoing improvement in patient outcomes (HbA1c’s). The team interact with the ward team, (providing clinical support and education) as well as safeguarding, social services, schools, clubs and extended families to ensure holistic care for their patients. They are truly an exceptional team to work with.
Plymouth Teams
APNP Team
Is a team at University Hospitals Plymouth
Coming into a new team was terrifying!
I didn’t need to be at all, the support I have received from the team has been second to none! The knowledge you have all given me has been so valuable, however the emotional support that I’ve definitely needed you have all been there on hand to let me talk through anything and made balancing this new career so much easier! I honestly couldn’t have gotten through without you all!
I can’t wait to continue being part of this amazing team, thank you!
CDC Paediatric Neurodevelopmental Team
Is a team at University Hospitals Plymouth
The Paediatric Neuro Developmental Team based at the CDC team consistently demonstrate Trust values to the highest degree. Patient welfare is a priority for the team and Team members often go above and beyond in order to meet the needs of their patients. They work closely with external partner’s to ensure a cohesive and united package of care is delivered. They also have frequent interactions with different teams at the CDC, providing a multi disciplinary approach in their patient care. Patient welfare always comes first with team members often going above and beyond in order to meet the needs of their patients. The team are very supportive of each other on both a work and personal level, stepping in to cover clinics when circumstances change, providing tea and biscuits in moments of crisis, and sending encouraging and caring text messages. The Leadership Team is dynamic, strong, and forward thinking. They are always on the look out for ways in which they can encourage team members to reach out for career opportunities and enhance their skills.
The paediatric neurodevelopmental team deserves this award for their exceptional dedication, compassion and expertise in supporting children and young people with complex developmental needs. Through a holistic, family- centred approach, they work tirelessly to ensure that every child reaches their full potential and are given appropriate diagnosis. The teams commitment to support the children and young people makes them truly outstanding and deeply deserving of recognition.
CEW (Complications Excess Weight) Team
Is a team at University Hospitals Plymouth
The CEW team are a community facing service, who are unique in their MDT and ensure that each child and young person (patient) within the service have a holistic and person centred package which includes whole family support through the Biopsychosocial model to support families in reversing health complications due to excess weight.
Which in turn encourages life long change.
For example our youth worker has built up professional relationships with a range of organisations across the Derriford foot print to reduce isolation and promote opportunities for families to engage in within their local neighbourhood.
The CEW specialist nurse will support with CEW physical activities, this has promoted open and organic conversations around health barriers and improvements with families. Who previously would not have done this at the UHP appointment.
The CEW team are dynamic and forward thinking, they strive to advocate for Children and young people to improve care delivered to patients and families for example: home visits, working with schools and local leisure centres, creating the CEW Youth Forum, working with Public Health – additional funding for travel (Day Riders and Petrol), CEW help Grant – (£80 per application for anything that will promote the individuals health and wellbeing – decisions are made by the youth forum), YMCA and ADAPT – CEW funded group sessions.
CEW youth volunteer was nominated for 2025 YMCA Unsung Hero award was a finalist. CEW youth volunteer has been awarded 2025 Active Devon Volunteer AWARD.
I am proud to be part of a truly multidisciplinary team that spans not only medical and nursing but also allied health (dietetics, psychology), youth services and children’s social work. The team work effectively around the child and their family and all interventions are individualised, so that they are made in partnership with the family. The team has an ethos that is equally playful and serious, a readiness to try new things but also the drive to see difficult situations through, helping families to overcome many of challenges towards reaching a healthier weight.
The CEW team is a fantastic community facing multi disciplinary team who support young people living with excess weight. They take a holistic approach to support young people to live a healthier life and achieve lifelong change. They use a BioPsychoSocial model to support the young people and their family in all areas of their lives. The families that they support are often very complex socially and emotionally and lots have have negative interaction. They work closely with organisations across the city including schools, active Devon and Public Health and have achieved some great results including reducing social isolation, getting young people back into education as well as physical health benefits such as reversing complications of excess weight like type 2 diabetes, hypertension and metabolic liver disease. We work closely as an MDT, there is no hierarchy in the CEW team, every members ideas and contribution is valuable and the variety of knowledge in the team mean that they can come up with some unique and innovative ideas to support each family with an individual plan tailored around their own situation. They provide opportunities for the young people to have a real influence on the service via the youth forum that guide the professionals as to what the young people really want from their service.
Children and Young Persons Outpatient Department
Is a team at University Hospitals Plymouth
CYPOD is a very versatile team who are always willing to help other departments and ouch themselves for the benefit of patients.
Over the last year they have taken on a phlebotomy service covering the whole of paediatrics to provide relief for doctors with bloods and cannulas. This is to help give patients a better experience and to help give better timings for results to help with quicker discharges.
They also provide assistant to children’s theatres with phlebotomy for sedated patients to provide a quicker and better experience.
The team on cypod seem to have a lot of support and respect for each other and work as a well oiled team .
The team constantly provide quality care for its patients and go above and beyond to ensure each patient is treated with care and compassion
Children’s Assessment Unit
Is a team at University Hospitals Plymouth
CAU consistently demonstrates the highest standard of collaborative practice, setting a benchmark for excellencey within nursing, and the wider healthcare environment.
Within their own service, the team exemplifies exceptional internal teamworking. Their culture is built on trust, open communication, and shared purpose, allowing them to respond to challenges with unity, resilience, and consistently high-quality clinical practice. Every member contributes meaningfully, and their collective dedication ensures that patients and families receive safe, coordinated, and compassionate care.
At the heart of their work lies a steadfast advocacy for Children and Young People. The team continually strives to improve the care delivered to patients and their families, championing initiatives that elevate patient experience, promote safety, and address unmet needs. Their commitment to listening, empowering, and supporting young people is woven into every pathway they develop and every decision they make.
I feel incredibly proud to be part of the CAU team. This amazing team demonstrates outstanding teamwork every single day. They support one another through the pressures of staffing, winter pressures and high patient acuity. They are always ready to lend a hand, offer a listening ear, or just make someone a cup of tea. The sense of camaraderie and care within the team is something truly special and it is nurtured by a fantastic, supportive manager who leads by example. Their leadership is supportive, inspiring, and approachable—always championing the team, encouraging development, and making sure everyone feels valued.
They also work seamlessly with the wider MDT, always fostering collaboration with medical, nursing, and clerical colleagues. New team members are welcomed warmly, and everyone shares their knowledge generously—ensuring learning and development happen across the board.
At the heart of everything they do is a genuine commitment to the children and young people in their care. They go above and beyond to ensure patients and families feel supported, reassured, and cared for, continually looking for ways to improve the care they deliver.
The team embodies the values of the RCPCH in every aspect of their work. They are confident, dynamic, and always looking to develop their skills and knowledge. They are fantastic teachers and mentors, supporting students and junior colleagues with patience and expertise.
I feel very privileged to work alongside such a dedicated, compassionate, and skilled team. They truly represent the very best of paediatric care.
Children’s High Dependency Unit
Is a team at University Hospitals Plymouth
This team provides nothing but support for eachother! They work very closely together and this is demonstrated in the care they provide their patients and their families. Their knowledge and expertise is recognised by other trusts in the Southwest and has been commended for this at the network days.
The CHDU team demonstrates outstanding commitment to delivering compassionate, high-quality care for children, young people, and their families. They embody the very best of nursing professionalism through their teamwork, compassion and dedication.
Each member of the team supports one another, ensuring a positive, safe, and nurturing environment for both patients and staff. The team communicates openly, shares knowledge generously, and consistently steps up to help colleagues during busy or challenging times. They all informally offer support as an outreach service to patients in other areas ensuring critical care skills and knowledge are shared.
The HDU team work seamlessly alongside their medical colleagues, ensuring that every child’s needs are met with efficiency, compassion, and continuity.
They actively advocate for their patients and families and ensure the voices of children and young people are heard, making sure that care decisions reflect their needs, preferences, and rights. Their commitment to empowering families and improving outcomes exemplifies true child centred care.
The teams dedication to care and unwavering respect for every individual reflect the very essence of the paediatric nursing profession.
Their compassion, teamwork, and professionalism make a profound difference to children, young people, and families every single day. They are an inspiring example of nursing excellence and are highly deserving of the Nursing Team of the Year
Children’s Assessment Unit & CHDU
Is a team at University Hospitals Plymouth
Nominating the team of the year!
I am proud to nominate this nursing team for their outstanding teamwork and the genuine support they show each other. These two units work closely together and face challenges as one team. It has been a tough year for many reasons, but the strength and positivity each team member brings has helped them rise together.
They approach every shift with compassion, adaptability, and a positive attitude, always ensuring the highest standards of patient care. They go above and beyond, even in difficult circumstances, and always show professionalism, empathy, and a smile.
Their teamwork, support, and dedication make our unit more than just a workplace — they make it a family.
Children’s Community Nursing Team.
Is a team at University Hospitals Plymouth
I am nominating the CCN Team as they are a group of dedicated and hard working nurses and health care assistants who strive to give excellent care to children in their own homes. The CCN Team cover a large geographical area and will endeavour to see patients in a timely manner. The CCN Team care for children with a wide range of conditions such as Epilepsy, Cystic fibrosis and Asthma. They also care for children who require invasive and non invasive ventilation, have tracheostomies and gastrostomies, are on home oxygen and patients who have nasal gastric tubes. The team will administer intravenous antibiotics and take bloods as required.
In the past year the team have started working 7 days a week to support children staying out of hospital and have also taken on doing jaundice clinic. The team support with training at schools and nurseries and also support training within the hospital. The team also help with Epilepsy, CF and respiratory clinics. I feel lucky to work within such a supportive team.
NICU
Is a team at University Hospitals Plymouth
The NICU team manage to balance being incredibly technically skilled and capable, with also caring deeply. They are a blended team of medical and nursing specialists, who work well together and support one another strengths and weaknesses. They made me feel very welcome and valued as a rotating trainee, and helped me to get involved with the department.
Paediatric Diebetes Team
Is a team at University Hospitals Plymouth
The Paediatric Diabetes Team at Derriford Hospital is an outstanding group who work together with a natural, genuine teamwork that makes a huge difference to children, young people, and their families. Nurses, dietitians, consultants, and psychology all collaborate closely, sharing expertise and supporting each other through everything — including some very challenging times recently — and their resilience and commitment never waver.
They know their families incredibly well and support them intensively, often far beyond the walls of the hospital. They’re proactive and innovative in helping every family embrace diabetes technology, making sure no one is left behind as care evolves. They work hard to poverty-proof their service, seeking out charitable funding to help families access suitable phones and equipment so that every young person can benefit from modern diabetes management, regardless of circumstance.
The team advocates fiercely for children and young people, particularly those who are most disadvantaged, ensuring their voices are heard and their needs genuinely met. Their combined knowledge, dedication, and warmth create a service that feels safe, joined-up, and truly centred on the child.
Cheryl, their wonderful psychologist, has been a huge part of this and will be deeply missed.
This exceptional team lives the RCPCH values every day and wholeheartedly deserves recognition as Team of the Year.
Paediatric Emergency Department
Is a team at University Hospitals Plymouth
What a year this team has had! They worked whilst being in a building site, then had to move the entire department with about a months notice to a new area, whilst continuing to give the children and families excellent care. They they had to set up a new area, that wasn’t purpose built as an ED, but they have made it work!!! They have all, including Consultants, Nurses, HCAs and Domestics, thrown themselves into making the new area work as an ED, from signage to creating resus bays with all the equipment ready to use, to continuously tidying that cupboard that seems to collect all the junk! They have continued to support one another through this big change and still deliver excellent care to the children and families that visit the ED at Derriford. They work hard for all the children that they see and always advocate for the best possible solution available for them even if this requires quite a considerable amount of liaising with other areas. They work as a team on every shift, and each individual member is encouraged to develop into their best nursing self.
Team Paeds ED exemplifies what it means to deliver exceptional paediatric care through teamwork, compassion, and dedication. The team works seamlessly together in one of the most dynamic and high-pressure environments in the hospital, consistently demonstrating outstanding internal collaboration and communication. Every member plays a vital role, supporting one another with professionalism, respect, and good humour — ensuring that no child or family ever feels unseen, even during the busiest shifts.
The team also models exemplary interaction with other departments and the wider multidisciplinary team. Their approachable, solution-focused attitude fosters strong relationships across services, ensuring that children receive safe, timely, and coordinated care.
Team Paeds ED constantly advocates for their patients and families. They constantly seek ways to improve patient experience and outcomes. Their compassion and creativity help transform difficult moments into positive, reassuring experiences for patients and their loved ones.
In all that they do, Paeds ED embodies the values of the RCPCH by showing compassion, integrity, respect and commitment to the wellbeing of children and young people.
Their collaborative spirit, tireless dedication, and unwavering focus on delivering the best possible care make it a team I am so proud to be a part of.
In recent years the Paediatric Emergency Department has undergone substantial changes and relocation, including a global pandemic; despite this the team has upheld the desire and ability to provide the highest standard of care to patients and their families whilst remaining a friendly and supportive team. The culture within the team is so positive that is it often referred to as a family, as that is exactly how it feels to be apart of. The care and support provided within the team is reflected through the positive experience patients have whilst being cared for within the department. During slow periods all members of the team are pro-active at sharing their knowledge through teaching sims or discussions and this is enjoyable with a team that makes you feel encouraged and promotes learning opportunities. Advocacy is a significant strength within the nursing and medical team within the paediatric department, ensuring our patients receive the very best care and improvements can be successfully implemented. It is often admirable to watch my colleagues going above and beyond to ensure their patients feel listened to and respected to re-in force positive experiences. Every aspect of patient contact and teamwork fully embodies the RCPCH values through respect, integrity, quality and most relevantly embracing change. I could not be any prouder to be part of this team and admire and learn from their resilience every single day. I cannot wait to witness and a part of the excellent things they will continue to do in the future.
Paediatric emergency department is more than a team, it’s a family. Every single of of them supports each other and the environment consists of trust, respect and genuine care. The team consistently show compassion to not only the patients and families but to each other too! They always help each other out, whether it’s stepping in to cover shifts, sharing knowledge, providing the newly qualified nurses every chance to gain their understanding and provides emotional support after challenging cases, which happens regularly in the emergency department. This strong sense of unity allows the team to deliver outstanding care, even in the most demanding circumstances. Their ability to work seamlessly together ensures that children and families always receive the highest standard of care.
Working in the emergency department means they have to work alongside multiple people of the multi disciplinary team. The communication to multiple staff members and collaboration ensures the continuity and quality of care for each child. They have an approachable and professional attitude which makes them a trusted and valued part of the hospital.
The paediatric emergency department advocate passionately for their patients ensuring all their voices are heard and every need is met with respect, dignity and compassion. The team continually looks for ways to improve care, from refining clinical practices to creating more comforting, family centred environments. Their empathy and advocacy ensure that families feel valued, supported, and empowered throughout their care journey.
Integrity, respect, compassion, collaboration and innovation. Paediatric emergency department exemplifies the core values of the royal college of paediatrics and child health. Their work reflects highest standards of professionalism and patient centered care.
They celebrate and support one another’s growth.
The Paediatric Emergency Team demonstrates excellence in everything they do. Their internal teamwork is exceptional — communication is clear, roles are well understood, and everyone supports one another to provide safe, timely, and compassionate care. Even in high-pressure situations, the team works with calm professionalism and shared purpose.
Their collaboration with the wider multidisciplinary team is just as impressive. They maintain strong relationships with inpatient services, safeguarding, community teams, and other departments, always working together to coordinate care and advocate for the best outcomes for children and families.
This team consistently puts children and young people at the centre of their work. They are strong advocates, ensuring every child’s voice is heard and their needs are met, no matter how complex the situation. They go above and beyond, supporting not just their patients, but families and colleagues too.
They also embody the values of the RCPCH — treating everyone with respect, compassion, and professionalism. Their commitment to high standards and continuous improvement is clear, shift after shift.
On a personal note, I feel incredibly privileged to be part of this team — a group made up not only of talented nurses but of true friends. This team that supports each other without hesitation, shares knowledge, and brings out the best in everyone. The care, laughter, and strength that exist here are something really special.
This team more than deserves to be recognised as Team of the Year — and I couldn’t be prouder to stand alongside them.
The Paediatric Emergency Department team at Derriford Hospital is more than a clinical service, it’s a family. In one of the busiest and most emotionally charged areas of the hospital, the incredible team continues to deliver exceptional care with compassion, humour, and heart. Every child who walks through the doors is treated not just as a patient, but as someone’s whole world.
As a newly qualified nurse in this department, I’ve been inspired every day by the way the team supports one another, drives innovation, and ensures that every family leaves feeling reassured and cared for. They truly embody Derriford’s values of kindness, teamwork, and dedication to children and their families.
Initiatives such as the sensory-friendly toy boxes, created by our Band 6 nurse, Abbie Harrison, and child-focused triage have helped reduce anxiety for children and parents alike. Despite the challenges of moving departments in the past six months, the team has adapted with positivity, professionalism, and a smile.
What makes this team so special is their unity. Doctors, nurses, HCAs, students, porters, and admin staff all work hand in hand, supporting each other through every shift. Laughter is shared as freely as tears, and no one ever faces a tough moment alone.
At its heart, this team radiates kindness- to patients, families, and to each other. They are not just colleagues but a community, and I couldn’t be prouder to be part of them.
The team work in ED is amazing. Everyone is so supportive, and always willing to help and support one another no matter the problem, or the advise needed. The team work with colleagues on level 12, at UTC Dartmoor, safeguarding, CAMS, maxfax, plastics, orthopedics, ENT etc etc and are always welcoming to everyone who visits, with a friendly open approach, with no job too much to be asked of them to assist with colleagues, patients and their families. The patients and their families always are at the forefront of their minds, advocating for them in every step of their journey whilst here, in a child friendly individualised manner catering for children of all ages, abilities, and understanding levels. Students who visit ED are always well supported, and are often wanting to come back to work in paeds ED after doing their placements due to their experiences. The team inspire me every day, and I could not imagine working with a better team!
The Paediatric Nursing Team deserves to be nominated for their exceptional teamwork, professionalism, and unwavering dedication to delivering high-quality, compassionate care to children, young people, and their families.
Within the department, the team demonstrates outstanding collaboration, supporting one another through empathy, respect, and a shared commitment to excellence. They consistently display resilience and adaptability in a dynamic environment, ensuring that every child receives safe, effective, and compassionate care, no matter how challenging the circumstances.
The team also models exemplary collaboration with the wider multidisciplinary team, working seamlessly alongside doctors, allied health professionals, and support services. Their open communication, professionalism, and respect for others foster a strong, unified approach to patient care, ensuring that families experience a coordinated and supportive journey throughout their time in hospital.
As a collective, the paediatric nursing team are passionate advocates for children and young people, ensuring their voices are heard and their needs are prioritised. They continually strive to improve care, championing best practice, innovation, and a family-centred approach that lies at the heart of paediatric nursing.
Above all, the team truly embodies the Values of the Royal College of Paediatrics and Child Health, demonstrating compassion, integrity, respect, and excellence in every aspect of their work. Together, they create a nurturing, professional, and inspiring environment that enhances both patient care and staff wellbeing, making them an outstanding example of what paediatric nursing should be.
The Paeds ED team exemplifies outstanding teamwork, compassion, and professionalism in every aspect of their work. They demonstrate exceptional internal collaboration, supporting one another through the challenges of emergency care while maintaining a calm, coordinated, and patient-focused environment. Their teamwork extends seamlessly across the wider multidisciplinary team, fostering strong relationships with other departments to ensure timely, safe, and holistic care for every child.
The team are tireless advocates for children, young people, and their families — always striving to improve experiences, outcomes, and the quality of care delivered. They consistently embody the Values of the RCPCH, showing compassion, integrity, respect, and dedication in all they do. Their collective commitment, skill, and empathy make the Paediatric ED team a truly exceptional example of excellence in children’s healthcare.
TCW Nursery Nurses
Is a team at University Hospitals Plymouth
Pink ladies are amazing
Great team
Wildgoose Ward
Is a team at University Hospitals Plymouth
Wildgoose Ward honestly feels like one big family. The teamwork here is next-level, everyone looks out for each other, communicates so well, and just makes the ward run smoothly even when things get hectic. The way the team links in with other wards and the wider MDT is amazing too. There’s so much mutual respect and collaboration, which makes such a difference for the children and families we care for. Every single person on the ward genuinely advocates for the young people we look after and constantly looks for ways to make their experience better. The team really embodies the values of the RCPCH through compassion, professionalism, and always putting patients at the heart of everything we do. It’s such a supportive and positive environment, and it shows in the quality of care we deliver. We have dealt with some very challenging situations this past year and we always seem to pull through it together and support each other as a family and are stronger for it.
I am proud to nominate Team Wildgoose for their outstanding commitment, resilience, and teamwork over the past year.
Despite significant challenges—including long-term staff sickness, maternity leave, and vacancies—the team has consistently shown remarkable dedication. These pressures have often resulted in short-staffed shifts and ward amalgamations, yet the team continues to unite, drawing on their resilience and strong ethos to deliver high-quality care to patients and one another.
This year, the team has seen a rise in young people admitted in mental health crisis and those with eating disorders. In response, they have adapted swiftly and compassionately, providing person-centred care that respects individuality, embraces diversity, and ensures each young person’s voice is heard.
Team Wildgoose also fosters an exceptional learning environment. They go above and beyond to support new staff, preceptees, and student nurses and paramedics. The team consistently receives excellent feedback for the nurturing, inclusive learning opportunities they provide.
Additionally, the team actively works on developing both individually and collectively. By acquiring new skills and refining existing ones, they continually strive for best practice and improved outcomes.
I have had the privilege of managing Team Wildgoose for the past three years. Their positivity, mutual support, and unwavering dedication to their patients—and to each other—are truly inspiring.
It is this collaborative culture, resilience, and shared commitment to excellence that makes Team Wildgoose so deserving of this award.
The Wildgoose Team exemplifies what true teamwork in nursing looks like. From the moment new staff join the team, they are welcomed with warmth, encouragement, and support. The team takes great pride in building confidence among new members—empowering them to grow, learn, and become the best nurses they can be.Within the team, every individual’s strengths are recognised and celebrated. The Wildgoose Team works collaboratively through challenges, supporting one another with compassion and understanding. They make the good times even better, and during difficult moments, their unity and positivity ensure that no one ever feels alone.At the heart of everything they do is a deep commitment to their patients. The Wildgoose Team consistently advocates for children, young people, and their families—ensuring that each patient’s individual needs are met with compassion, dignity, and excellence. They engage proactively with different members of the MDT to secure the best possible care for every patient
I have been a part of this team for a few years and I love to see how well everyone works together and checks in on each other regularly. The team are hard working and particularly adaptable when needed and able to embrace change. We have had a tough few months with our ward not being open but I feel the team have stayed positive and have integrated well into 1 ward. Before this the ward was one tricky shift after another for a long period of time and again the team bonded well and looked after each other.
Wildgoose have a good relationship with the MDT and are great at interacting with others to get things done and remain professional, whilst treating others with respect and acting with integrity.
Everyone on Wildgoose has advocated for their patients and families to ensure exceptional care and are willing to improve on patient care and its delivery, by passing down knowledge and supporting each other in strengths and weaknesses.
I am proud to be part of Wildgoose.
Team Wildgoose exemplifies what outstanding teamwork truly looks like. Despite facing significant challenges over the last year, they have remained united, resilient and deeply committed to delivering the highest standard of care. Their ability to support one another, lift each other up and continue moving forward with determination and compassion is nothing short of remarkable. They demonstrate exceptional internal teamworking every single day, communicating openly, sharing responsibility and ensuring that no colleague ever feels alone in difficult moments.
Wildgoose also models exemplary collaboration with other teams and the wider multidisciplinary workforce. They engage with colleagues across services with respect, clarity and professionalism, always striving to ensure that every child and young person receives seamless, holistic care. Their interactions strengthen pathways, enhance communication and foster a culture of trust, making them a team that others genuinely enjoy working alongside.
At the heart of their practice is advocacy. Wildgoose consistently amplifies the voices of children, young people and their families, ensuring their needs guide every decision. They champion improvements, challenge barriers and work tirelessly to enhance the quality and experience of care. Whether supporting a distressed young person, working through complex care plans or reassuring families during uncertain times, they centre compassion, dignity and safety in everything they do.
This is a team that has weathered storms, embraced change and continued to show up for each other and for their patients with strength, humour and heart. They are inspiring, dependable and truly exceptional.
For their resilience, compassion, teamwork and outstanding contribution to the care of children and young people, I wholeheartedly nominate Team Wildgoose.
I am proud to nominate the team on Wildgoose Ward for Team of the Year. The ward consistently demonstrates exceptional internal teamwork, supporting one another with professionalism, compassion and an unwavering commitment to delivering safe, high-quality paediatric care. Their collaborative approach extends seamlessly to other teams and the wider MDT, where they model outstanding communication, mutual respect and a truly integrated style of working that enhances patient outcomes across the hospital. The Wildgoose Ward team are passionate advocates for children, young people and their families, always striving to improve care through innovation, reflection and a determination to ensure every child feels heard, valued and supported. They are able to achieve all of this whilst being away from their own ward for months at a time and still show nothing but mutual respect and civility within the new team they are in.
In all aspects of their practice they embody the RCPCH values—putting children first, acting with integrity, championing inclusive care and continuously seeking to grow, learn and improve—making them an exceptional and deeply deserving candidate for Team of the Year.
2025 has been a tough year for the staff of wildgoose ward. Difficult patients with social admissions that stayed on the ward long term, with many calls to security and at times the police, all leading to the staff being both mentally and physically drained. And then being moved from the ward to merge with our colleagues across the hall, leading to a bit of uncertainty and unrest.
Through it all, wildgoose have had each other’s backs, we support each other, constantly ensure the well-being of each other and go out of our way to ensure that everyone is OK, all while giving our patients and their families the best care possible.
Each patient is treated as an individual and their care adjusted according to their wants and needs.
This team is absolutely fantastic and even thought we have all had a difficult time of it. I personally am proud to be a part of wildgoose ward! #whatteam
I would like to nominate Wildgoose Ward for Team of the Year. The Wildgoose team has shown incredible strength, adaptability, and unity over the past year. Despite the challenges of having our own ward closed for an extended period, the team has taken every change in their stride and continued to deliver exceptional care wherever they’ve been based.
Throughout this time, Wildgoose has demonstrated outstanding internal teamwork — always supporting one another, sharing skills, and ensuring the highest standards of care are maintained. The team consistently shows excellent collaboration with other wards and the wider MDT, building strong, respectful relationships that benefit both patients and colleagues.
The team continues to advocate passionately for children and young people, striving to improve care and experiences for patients and their families in every setting. They have embraced learning new skills and adapting to new environments with positivity and professionalism.
Even in challenging circumstances, the Wildgoose team has kept morale high through kindness, humour, and unwavering teamwork. Their resilience, compassion, and dedication to both their patients and each other truly make them stand out.
Wildgoose Ward fully embodies the values of the RCPCH — compassion, integrity, respect, and excellence — and they are a shining example of what true teamwork looks like in paediatric care.
Other Teams
Community Outreach and Support Team (COaST)
Is a team at Other (please specify in nomination)
COAST (Cornwall out reach support team for Eating Disorders service in Cornwall) work exceptionally as a team responding to the rapid changes and demands of an intensive eating disorders home treatment service. They equally interact with the wider CYPEDS team in a professional compassionate manor with the needs of the families they support at the centre of their decision making and strive to improve the care of young people and their families. There goal of supporting families to care for the child at home is to be admired and comes with daily challenges that they strive to overcome every day.
COaST who work together within Cornwall Foundation Trust’s CAMHS eating disorder service to try and prevent the need for admissions to paediatric wards and specialist eating disorder units, whilst also bridging the gap between acute paediatrics and community. In their first two years they have already saved around £4m in avoided bed days, but most importantly helped many families and young people to be able to recover in their own homes where they can be most comfortable and least disruptive to their lives. In fact they have even been spotlighted in an article by one of our eating disorder gurus, Eva Musby, after a family were so impressed they wanted to share their story of the support they received from COaST, as well as presenting their service at the international eating disorders conference earlier this year!
The amazing members of the team exemplify multidisciplinary working and care and compassion, attending families’ homes to support and educate then returning to the office to share the insights they have gained in daily MDT huddles which anyone involved with the young person are invited to attend. They also support the acute trusts in paediatric clinics and by attending the wards when young people do need admission to support young people, families and staff, and provide urgent eating disorder assessments.
In my opinion we are incredibly lucky to have such a caring and pioneering team that do so much and truly care about the families they work with!
CYPEDS
Is a team at Other (please specify in nomination)
Consistently demonstrate exceptional teamwork, dedication and a strong commitment to achieve our shared goals in the best interest of YP
Royal Devon and Exeter Teams
Bramble Clinical Education Team
Is a team at Royal Devon & Exeter Hospital
Nicki and Kerry are great Practice educational Nurses, they always there to provide support and given advice to us.
Bramble Day Case Unit (Ambulatory Unit)
Is a team at Royal Devon & Exeter Hospital
The Bramble Day Case Unit (Ambulatory Unit) is an outstanding team whose dedication, compassion, and professionalism make a remarkable difference to the children and families they care for. This hardworking team consistently goes above and beyond, managing a wide range of conditions and complex cases with skill, empathy, and patience.
The unit faces daily challenges, caring for many children who may feel anxious, frightened, or have lost trust in medical professionals. Through their kindness, understanding, and perseverance, the nurses and wider team rebuild that trust—helping children gain confidence not only in the care they receive, but also in managing their own conditions and the challenges they face.
The teamwork within Bramble Day Case is outstanding. They work seamlessly together, supporting each other while collaborating with many different consultants and departments. Their knowledge and skills are exceptional, and they are always willing to help the ward or outpatients whenever needed.
The bonds they build with regular patients and families are so special. It’s wonderful to see those children, who once arrived nervous and unsure, grow into confident young people ready to move on to adult services. The Bramble Day Case Unit truly embodies kindness, teamwork, and dedication, and they are so deserving of recognition for the incredible work they do every single day.
Bramble HCA Team
Is a team at Royal Devon & Exeter Hospital
We are truly lucky on Bramble ward to have such a wonderful bunch of HCAs. They have always been amazing, but recently they have stepped up a gear. A lot of the team have been finding the ward really difficult at the moment, and have really come together to work together and ensure that the workload is shared fairly and ensuring each other are looked after. When coordinating, I don’t need to do a thing! They have worked out who is doing what, and when and ensure it is all fair and shared equally. They always feed back any issues, and ideas for how working can be improved to ensure themselves and the wider team are looked after. On top of this, everyone is so willing to help, and ensure that the ward is running smoothly and the ward really feels the hit when they’re not on. So I just wanted to say a big THANK YOU to all the HCA’s for the phenomenal work they do, even more so recently.
Bramble Ward
Is a team at Royal Devon & Exeter Hospital
Bramble has faced one of the hardest years due to multiple reasons. We have stuck together, supported one another, and got each other through some of the hardest shifts anyone has faced. We have worked endlessly to communicate with other teams, to advocate for cares for the patients and their families to ensure we are meeting all their needs and requirements to support them to recovery, and a safe discharge into the community. I am proud to be a staff member on Bramble, I couldn’t wish for a better team to work alongside during these challenging times.
I have worked on Bramble for two years now, after working on other wards previously i have never known a ward to show such good team work. This year has been a tough one for all staff, lots of challenging cases but every single person has guided and supported us through it as a team.
I hear regularly from patients and families how wonderful the care is on bramble and what amazing advocates we are for the best interest of the children, ALWAYS.
Bramble Ward has truly exemplified what it means to be a team of excellence, demonstrating exceptional internal teamworking and seamless interaction with other teams and the wider multidisciplinary team. Despite a year of significant changes, with many staff moving on in their careers, new faces joining, and challenging child cases passing through the doors, the team has consistently come together, supporting each other to deliver the best care possible. Their ability to adapt and maintain high standards of care amidst these transitions speaks volumes about their dedication, resilience, and professionalism. Bramble Ward has not only maintained but also enhanced its commitment to the advocacy of children and young people, continuously striving to improve the care delivered to patients and their families. They have worked tirelessly to ensure that every patient receives the very best, person-centred care, no matter how complex the case. The opening of the new PAU unit has set us apart from other hospitals, as well as the new CED, where working children have been made to feel more at ease. What sets Bramble Ward apart is its embodiment of the values of the RCPCH. The team’s strategic outlook and commitment to progressive goals are evident in their daily work. They actively collaborate with children, young people, and their families, as well as with other healthcare professionals, to ensure that the care they deliver is informed, compassionate, and always improving. Through continuous learning, teamwork, and a shared vision, Bramble Ward has become a shining example of how healthcare teams can thrive, even in the face of adversity. Their commitment to strategic goals and the values of RCPCH ensures that they remain at the forefront of child advocacy and care, providing exceptional service to those who need it most.
Bramble has been such a hard working team especially over the last year. We have had many difficult situations with many deaths and many mental health patient, however, that did not stop team Bramble! we worked together supported each other, advocated for our patients and colleagues and kept a positive atmosphere throughout.
Bramble ward has excellent teamwork, supporting each other to learn and progress. The team are excellent advocates for children and younger people to ensure they get the care they need. The ward strive to embody RCPCH values in what they do. The whole MDT work together to support each other and the patients.
Bramble Ward is a shining example of teamwork and resilience. In the most challenging situations, the team works closely together, supporting one another while delivering outstanding care to every patient. Their dedication, unity, and positive spirit make them truly deserving of this recognition.
Neonatal Unit
Is a team at Royal Devon & Exeter Hospital
Regular MDT meetings enables easy communication within the whole team. It is a friendly, welcoming and supportive team that continues outside the work place, whether on the dance floor or at the top of a mountain!
An absolutely fantastic team to be a part of – everyone works so well together, supporting and learning from eachother and continually advocating for our patients and providing the highest quality of neonatal care. I wouldn’t want to work with any other team.
Neonatal Unit Clinical Education Team
Is a team at Royal Devon & Exeter Hospital
The newly formed Clinical Education Team at NNU Exeter has made a huge impact in a very short time. Working within the multidisciplinary team, they provide holistic support that improves staff wellbeing and confidence. Through simulation training, guidance for newly qualified staff and innovative educational ideas they are enabling the clinical team members (who may not have previously felt able) to confidently provide ITU care and complete their QIS training. Their dedication and practical support make them highly deserving of recognition.
Oncology Team
Is a team at Royal Devon & Exeter Hospital
Although this year have been a challenge for the oncology team, they still smiling and doing an wonderful job.
They always gone above and beyond to ensure the children and family looked after well.
I have recently had the pleasure of working with the oncology team. I have been overwhelmed by the care they give to the patients and families they are involved in. They strive to go above and beyond for all the families to ensure they receive the best care. Through what is a really scary time for children and their families the team provide, smiles and devote their time week in week out to support them in the best way possible. Even sometimes if this means working really late or not having their cup of tea, they ensure their patients receive the best care. The team work very closely with nursing staff on Bramble ward, with north Devon colleagues, dieticians, community nurses, consultants, physio’s and the Bristol team to name a few! Collaborating this MDT care is a challenge in itself but it seems no trouble to this team who ensure everyone is kept up to date about a child’s care. Recently on the ward we have had several palliative cases and I have felt very supported by the oncology nursing team through this difficult time. I have been inspired by their strategies to ensure families experience the best time with their child in the last few days of life. The team also strive to inspire the next generation of oncology nurses teaching them the skills necessary to competently care for their patients. This team deserve the recognition for the amazing care they give.
The Oncology Team has consistently demonstrated exceptional teamwork, providing unwavering support, compassion, and expertise within the team and across the wider multidisciplinary team. Over the past year, despite facing heart-breaking cases and the loss of young patients, the team has shown remarkable strength and resilience. They continue to provide outstanding care while navigating the emotional challenges inherent in oncology. The Oncology Team excels in collaboration, not only within their own department but also with external healthcare professionals, ensuring that each patient’s care journey is seamless and cohesive. They advocate relentlessly for children and young people, always striving to improve the care they provide and ensuring that every patient is treated with dignity and respect.
A key highlight of their dedication is their commitment to expanding knowledge within the field. The team has worked tirelessly to increase oncology training for healthcare professionals, ensuring a wider base of skilled staff is equipped to provide the best possible care. This effort strengthens both the oncology department and Bramble Ward as a whole, enriching the entire care community.
The team’s seamless work with community teams has ensured continuity of care beyond the hospital, supporting families through cancer treatment and beyond. Despite the inevitable heart-breaking losses, the Oncology Team embodies the values of the RCPCH, with a strategic outlook and commitment to practical, progressive goals. Their strength, determination, and focus on the well-being of children and young people have made a lasting impact on both families and the healthcare community.
Paediatric Eating Disorder and Mental Health Team
Is a team at Royal Devon & Exeter Hospital
I would like to nominate the paediatric mental health team for their exceptional support to young people on Bramble ward and also staff caring for the patients. The team work very closely with the word, providing support to those admitted with eating disorders or mental health disorders. Abbie and Lucy strive to support the nursing and healthcare assistant team to the best of their ability whilst also running clinics, providing teaching and lots of other jobs that I am sure go on behind the scenes. Sometimes certain cases are very challenging and staff are apprehensive and anxious about caring for the patients. Knowing that Abbie and Lucy are their to support us makes this is a little easier !! I admire their work and their exceptional interaction with other members of the Bramble MDT to ensure the best care is provided. Since being in their roles they are always striving to improve the service and work with staff to provide a better experience to the young people and their families.
PAU
Is a team at Royal Devon & Exeter Hospital
To all the PAU team nurses and doctors for the great job they have done this year. Especially in a lovely new place which are now that make big difference to the children and parents.
Project Play
Is a team at Royal Devon & Exeter Hospital
Project Play volunteered for the task of improving Medical Imaging waiting areas, particularly for paediatric patients. Not solely artwork, the team have created a whole “journey” for children attending the department, including passports to link with the theme of each waiting area and the child’s medical imaging journey.
In a matter of a few months they created a vision to improve our waiting areas to create interest, distraction and a positive environment in an alien setting. They implemented an impressive charity appeal leading to thousands of pounds being raised. Working collaboratively with local businesses, large national companies, the charity team and a local artist they have brought their vision and whole lot more to bring the project to life. They inspired colleagues and had the support of cake bakers, craft makers, runners, cyclists and sky divers to help raise some funds.
They have engaged with the patient and sought feedback to ensure the murals are reflective of the patients’ needs whilst being diverse and inclusive for all.
They have gone the extra mile with their innovation to create a journey, which can be daunting and overwhelming for some patients, to give the sense of a welcoming, safe space as they follow their hot air balloon journey through the department.
The work that has gone into project play and which continues is a testament to the team committed to improving the patient journey, as most of this project works goes above and beyond the working day.
Project Play have been inspirational and we are very proud of their commitment, passion and achievement whilst putting the paediatric patients at the heart of every decision made. They are truly deserving of recognition.
Back to categories
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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
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We will use the following criteria for creating the shortlist and choosing the final winner:
JUDGING CRITERIA
1. Demonstrates exceptional internal teamworking
2. Models exceptional interaction with other teams and the wider MDT
3. Advocates for Children and Young People and strives to improve care delivered to patients and families
4. Embodies the Values of the RCPCH*
PAFTAs 