Health Minister commends Trust staff for making a difference

Health Minister, Michael McGimpsey, today paid tribute to staff in the Southern Health & Social Care Trust (HSC) for making a difference to the care of patients.

Speaking ahead of the Southern Trust’s inaugural Excellence Awards Ceremony, Mr McGimpsey said: "I commend all staff who have been nominated today. Their work over the past year has helped hundreds of patients in lots of ways. From clinical staff on the front line to clerical staff working behind the scenes, they have all contributed in different ways to making the patient experience a better one."

The awards ceremony was introduced to reward commitment, innovation and achievements of staff from the Southern HSC Trust.

The Minister also paid tribute to the Trust’s Board for taking the initiative in publicly acknowledging the good work healthcare staff have been doing. He said: "Not only do I welcome the opportunity to hear about the difference being made to patient care within the Southern Trust, I wish to praise the Board for initiating this public celebration of excellence."

Notes to editors:

1. The six award categories were:

• Raising Standards – Award for excellence in patient / client safety & quality of care;
• Anything’s Possible – Award for excellence in service creativity & innovation;
• Views into Action – Award for excellence in staff involvement;
• Working Together – Award for excellence in partnership working;
• Best Care, Best Value – Award for excellence in delivering improved efficiency;
• Behind the Scenes – Award for excellence in non-clinical services.

2. For further information, please contact the DHSSPS Press Office on 028 9052 2841. Out of office hours please contact the Duty Press Officer via pager number 07699 715 440 and your call will be returned.