Publish date: 6 March 2025
January's Employee of the Month winner is Antonia Bennett, Norris Green District Nursing Team, nominated by Aimee Topping for the value of accountability
Antonia attended a patient visit on 13 December 2024. When she arrived and entered the property, she instantly smelt gas. The patient was elderly and extremely vulnerable. Antonia went above and beyond to ensure the patient and neighbouring houses / area was safe. She advised the patient to exit the property, however the patient did not want to leave her home. She exited and instantly contacted the Emergency Gas Service Emergency Gas Engineer attended and found leak from outside of the property and found gas to be leaking into property. This was a near miss with patient informing DN that had she turned on her cooker a gas explosion would have occurred.
This swift action safeguarded a vulnerable patient but also neighbouring properties from a potential explosion from the gas leak. If the DN had not acted on her instincts and contacted the gas company this could have resulted in a serious incident affecting not just the patient but wider community.
January's Team of the Month winner Liverpool Community Learning Disability Team, nominated by Carla Whittaker for the value of enthusiasm
The Liverpool Community Learning Disability Team has had a significant positive impact on patients, families, and the wider service. By proactively addressing safeguarding concerns, they have prevented potential harm, ensuring vulnerable individuals are supported and safe. Their ability to navigate complex, ethically challenging cases has not only ensured the right decisions but also promoted a higher standard of compassionate, person-centred care.
For patients, this means improved safety, tailored care, and a stronger sense of autonomy. Carers benefit from the team’s expertise, gaining guidance and reassurance in difficult situations. Their collaborative approach has strengthened relationships with other professionals, ensuring more integrated care plans. Within the team, their shared commitment to safeguarding and ethics fosters a supportive, learning driven environment, improving morale and reinforcing best practices across the service.