Award for nurses who set up cancer support clinic

The team help about 500 patients each year following breast cancer surgery, their NHS trust said

A team of nurses who launched a clinic to support breast cancer patients with their care after their surgery have won an award for their achievements.

The clinic was set up six years ago at New Cross Hospital in Wolverhampton and has gone on to help about 500 people a year, NHS bosses said.

It runs twice a week for anyone in need of help with wound care following their breast surgery.

The team behind it won the "Innovation in Surgical Site Infection" accolade in the Journal of Wound Care Awards 2024 event, their NHS trust said.

The contest highlights the work of individuals and groups whose work has affected patients’ lives around the world.

Ann Harvey, Rachael Longdon and Emma Lewis from The Royal Wolverhampton NHS Trust started the clinic in Wolverhampton.

Ms Harvey, who has worked for the NHS for 18 years, said: "We wanted to be able to give the best, timely support possible to patients after their surgery, knowing that wound care can cause anxiety after an already significant event.

“We are so thrilled and proud to have been recognised with a gold award – and still slightly shocked by it all as well."

The team also includes Chrissie Duley, Liz Blything, Ann Haynes, Jenny Potts and Cayte Hopton.

Seni Mylvaganam, from the trust, described the clinic as an "invaluable addition to the breast service".