Locala colleague Letty Dixon, a support worker with the Immunisation Team, was recognised for her service at the national level with CNO’s Health Care Support Worker award. Letty is the first recipient from a community setting to win this award in our region.. 

This is an award to recognise healthcare professionals who continually demonstrate the values and behaviours the NHS prides itself with, including excellent patient care, being able to inspire both colleagues and patients, and demonstrating leadership.

What’s remarkable about Letty’s achievements is that she joined the Immunisation Team only over a year ago, so to receive an award on behalf of the Chief Nursing Officer of England is a wonderful feat.

“I am particularly impressed with Letty’s aptitude and willingness to go above and beyond, to not only become competent in her own role, but to support all team members, myself included,” said Victoria Vallance, Locala’s Chief Nurse, in a surprise ceremony at Dewsbury Health Centre.

She continued, “Letty has shown 100% commitment and enthusiasm in supporting her nursing colleagues as a plus one in schools, clinics and home visits to ensure safe practice and provide clinical support.”

What is even more satisfying about the award is that Letty was nominated by her peers, which was then considered by a panel of senior NHS colleagues who are responsible for selecting individuals making such contributions, regardless of their specific healthcare duties.

A significant part of Letty's role at Locala, is vaccine ordering, stock monitoring rotation, and cold chain responsibilities. It's a fairly unique role, often complex, and something that Letty performs with pride to an exceptionally high standard, especially, considering the length of time she has been in post. 

Locala's Chief Nurse, Victoria Vallance, and Director of Nursing for NHS England North East and Yorkshire, Gill Hunt, presented the award to Letty. 

On receiving the award, Letty was both surprised and delighted. Her colleagues joined the award presentation and celebrated Letty's achievement.