Medical secretary thanked for helping to protect a member of the public

Sue Robinson (left) receives her award from Tracy Bullock                                 Sarah Curran, Safeguarding Adult Nurse, joined Sue and Tracy

A medical secretary has been recognised for the role she played in protecting the life of a member of the public recently. Sue Robinson, who works in the oral and maxillofacial department at Royal Stoke, took appropriate action to raise safeguarding concerns after receiving a distressed telephone call whilst at work. The safeguarding adults team, upon receipt of the concerns, were then able to alert appropriate agencies.

Sue has been given the Chief Executive’s award in recognition of her swift action.

Sue said: “I thought something didn’t seem quite right when I first spoke to this person, so I contacted the safeguarding team and they took it very seriously. I’m so glad that I got in touch because I know that there was a good outcome for the person and I feel really proud that I could be a part of this.”

Sarah Curran, safeguarding adult  nurse, said: "We’re really pleased that Sue was so diligent about this case. It is also important to recognise the excellent skills Sue demonstrated when initially taking the phone call. She stayed calm and obtained all the necessary information. She also reassured the person and escalated her concerns, saving somebody who was potentially at risk of abuse.”

Sue was presented with the award by Chief Executive Tracy Bullock.

Tracy said: “We take the safety and wellbeing of patients, staff, visitors and members of the public extremely seriously at UHNM and our staff receive training on what to do if they spot a potential issue. The safeguarding team have worked very hard, particularly during the recent awareness month, to help raise the profile of safeguarding even further and I am very proud to see the good results of everyone’s dedication.”