Samaritan Sammy pops in for Blue Monday
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HeartAward2026:NominationsOpen
The much‐anticipated Heart Awards return in May, once again hosted at The Holiday Inn at Dodworth. As always, they will celebrate the incredible work of Barnsley Hospital colleagues over the past year.
The 2026 awards are now open for nominations and include categories such as Volunteer of the Year, Patient Care Award, and Outstanding Achievement Awards for both clinical and non‐clinical teams and individuals. Executive and Governor Awards will also recognise those who truly embody our Trust values.
If you know someone who is making a difference and deserves recognition, please take a look at the categories and submit a nomination. Find out
Emma Parkes
Director of Communications
“I get my flu vaccine every year to protect myself, my family, and my patients. It’s a simple step that helps keep everyone safer. We all need protecting - so let’s look after each other.”
David Allott, Support Worker on Day Surgery Unit
CONGRATULATIONS
DAVIDNovember Flu Vaccination Prize Draw Winner!
As a thank you to all staff who have received their flu vaccination, we’ve entered everyone into a £50 voucher draw during October, November and December. This is our way of showing appreciation for helping keep our patients, colleagues, and community safe. We’re thrilled to announce that David Allott from the Day Surgery Unit was our November prize draw winner!
If you haven’t had your vaccine yet, there’s still time! Call Occupational Health on ext. 4939 to book or keep an eye out for our Vaccinators during their roaming visits and drop-in sessions.
SamaritanSammypopsinforBlueMonday
Grant Fieldsend, Outreach Officer, who was inside the mascot, said: “We want the Samaritans to be the first call people make, not the last. People think we are only here for those who feel suicidal but we can offer help with all kinds of anxiety, whether that’s being scared about a job interview, being bullied, or an argument with your partner. We don’t tell people what to do – we just listen.”
Grant attended the hospital with his colleague, listening volunteer Maria Blackwell. Among those they met were Willow Grace, aged three, from Athersley North, and hospital domestic Gina Townhill, from Worsbrough. Gina said: “My granddaughters Layla and Esmae will love these colouring books!”
Call 116 123 for free
Whatever you're going through, a Samaritan will face it with you. We're here 24 hours a day, 365 days a year
LEODelegatesAchieveProjectSuccess!
Congratulations to all our recent LEO graduates who’ve completed the 3day LEO study programme as well as undertaken a 3-month leadership project of their choosing.
Tim Spackman, Head of Leadership and Organisational Development
said, ‘It was inspiring to hear how our leaders had used their learning to make changes that will benefit both patients and colleagues. Well done to everyone involved!’
Give a big, warm welcome to Emma Shepherd, the newest member of the communications crew! When she’s not walking around the wards with a camera and notepad, you’ll find her hunting down some of the amazing stories from across the hospital (and drinking lots of tea).
A trained print, online and broadcast journalist with years of comms experience in the public sector, Emma has extensive knowledge of running and managing several large social media accounts.
Don’t be shy - email her on emma.shepherd27@nhs.net and make her feel at home.
Emma Shepherd Communications & Media Officer
BRILLIANT TEAM
Ward18
Ward 18 has shown outstanding teamwork during a challenging period, supporting each other through staff shortages, leadership changes, and high patient acuity. The team consistently prioritises safe, compassionate care, with Band 6 nurses, HCAs, the discharge coordinator, hostess, and cleaning staff all going above and beyond
New medical and nursing leadership has strengthened efficiency and staff support. The ward embodies Trust values and strategic goals by fostering kindness, respect, inclusion, and exceptional patient ‐ and family‐centred care. I feel privileged to be part of this team.
Nominate a colleague for a Brilliant Award today
DawnPickeringShortlistedfor MyCleaningLifetimeAchievementAward
With enormous pride, we celebrate the nomination of Dawn Pickering for the Lifetime Achievement Award at the National MyCleaning Awards.
For more than three decades, Dawn has embodied professionalism, compassion, and unwavering dedication to safe, high‐quality healthcare environments at Barnsley Hospital.
Her leadership through change, commitment to innovation, and drive for continuous improvement have strengthened standards, reduced infections, and supported colleagues across Domestic Services.
Dawn’s influence is felt in every ward, every team, and every patient experience. This nomination honours a truly exceptional career and an inspiring NHS role model.
BRILLIANT INDIVIDUAL
MarcusDearns
Marcus Dearns is exceptional in driving awareness and meaningful action around deconditioning. Their passionate, evidence‐based training empowers multidisciplinary teams to identify early signs and promote mobility, independence, and patient‐centred care. Marcus provides hands‐on ward support, co‐designing practical initiatives that improve outcomes and strengthen collaborative working.
Their links with community and rehabilitation partners ensure joined‐up care beyond discharge. Through leadership, innovation, and compassion, Marcus has created lasting positive change and continues to inspire colleagues across the organisation.
Nominate a colleague for a Brilliant Award today
BRILLIANT TEAM
ChildrensOutpatient
The Children’s Outpatient Department has launched an innovative SEND Paediatric Phlebotomy Clinic, creating a calm, adapted environment that reduces anxiety through play and personalised distraction techniques. The team contacts families in advance to understand each child’s needs, ensuring a supportive, tailored experience.
Designed collaboratively using service‐user feedback, the clinic reflects true compassion, respect, and equality. By adapting care for children with additional needs and improving the phlebotomy experience, the team exemplifies Trust values and delivers genuinely inclusive, patient‐centred care.
Nominate a colleague for a Brilliant Award today
So far this Dry January, we have connected with 160 members of staff with 46 colleagues being offered brief intervention advice to support safe drinking. We are also pleased to report that 13 colleagues have completed Dry January and signed up to receive a Dry January badge.
It’s not too late to take part in the remaining Tuesday ward walks with an opportunity to spin the wheel and hand out sweets and worry worms. Get in touch with the ACT team on 3118 or 3117 to sign up or for further information.
Doing Dry January?
Share your story with the Comms team by email.
Pictured above Sam and Kia
