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Student nurse from Great Barton shortlisted for national award after working through Covid-19 crisis




A student nurse who worked valiantly through the Covid-19 crisis has been shortlisted for a national award.

Fiona Fitch, from Great Barton, may only be approaching the end of her second year of her nursing degree, but is already making a huge difference to patients and the NHS, say hospital bosses.

Fiona, 47, a University of Suffolk student, has been shortlisted as nursing student of the year at the RCNi Nurse Awards 2020.

Fiona Fitch didn't have the confidence to become a nurse when she was younger.
Fiona Fitch didn't have the confidence to become a nurse when she was younger.

Currently on placement at the West Suffolk Hospital in Bury St Edmunds, Fiona’s lifelong dream was to become a nurse.

But at first, she didn’t have the confidence after she left school.

Having raised her family though and worked as a private secretary, a swimming teacher, and a property developer, Fiona returned to education as a mature student.

Fiona said: “Overcoming the challenge of walking into university open days when I was old enough to be a parent of the students was very difficult.

"I am pleased to say I have not once looked back.”

When the Covid-19 pandemic struck in the middle of Fiona’s studies, rather than let it pass, she decided to work as a nursing assistant at West Suffolk Hospital.

“I am a positive person and relished the challenge,” she said.

“I have felt privileged to reassure patients when they are at their most anxious and vulnerable in hospital.”

Fiona was shortlisted in the RCNi Nurse Awards for her ‘extensive research into how student nurses can contribute to improving the care of deteriorating patients’.

She is now delivering her findings to adult nursing students at her university.

Diane Last, clinical education lead at the West Suffolk NHS Foundation Trust, said: “Fiona uses her life experience to be considered and measured in her approach, and is keen to push forward developments that will improve care in anyway.

"She’s a rising star, and we have been so proud to have her on our team at the beginning of her career. We all wish her the best of luck at the awards, but she is already a winner in our eyes."

The RCNi, a subsidiary of the Royal College of Nursing, is due to hold the awards, virtually, later this year.

Donna Page, senior lecturer in adult health at the University of Suffolk, said: "Fiona represents the best of nursing - commitment, passion and an enquiring mind which inspires her fellow students and lecturers alike."

Teresa Budrey, RCN Eastern regional director, said: “We are delighted to see that Fiona’s fabulous contribution to the trust, patients and other students at her university is being recognised.

“Students like Fiona who have continued to work on the frontline of the NHS during the Covid-19 pandemic show just how dedicated and vital this workforce is for patients and services.

"To carry out extensive research and deliver findings which will ultimately help patients, demonstrates the innovation and commitment students bring to their studies."