Three OUH Healthcare Support Workers receive NHS England Chief Nursing Officer Award

Congratulations to three of our Healthcare Support Workers from our Neurosciences department, who have been honoured with the NHS England Chief Nursing Officer Award.

Christina Abarno, Cyril Mathew, and Martha Stepney recently received the awards, which celebrate nurses and healthcare support workers who consistently go above and beyond, demonstrating exceptional care, leadership, and commitment to NHS values.

The awards were presented by Florian Stoermer, Divisional Director of Nursing for Neurosciences, Orthopaedics, Trauma, Specialist Surgery, Children’s and Neonates (NOTSSCaN) Division.

Cyril Mathew – Nursing Assistant, Neuroscience Green Ward
Cyril was nominated by Remya Babu, Ward Sister, who highlighted his compassion and reliability:

"Cyril provides consistent and outstanding care to all patients. He is compassionate, supportive to colleagues, and always receives positive feedback.

"Recently, he cared tirelessly for a bariatric patient with a spinal injury — a physically demanding role he approached with patience and kindness. When the patient was discharged, he even sent a thank-you card.

"Staff feel happy and supported when Cyril is on shift. He is polite, gentle, and always attentive to patients' needs."

Martha Stepney – Senior Nursing Assistant, Neuroscience Red/High Care Ward
Martha, who was a nursing assistant at the time of nomination, was put forward by Jade Evans, Ward Sister:

"Martha is an exceptional healthcare assistant who consistently goes above and beyond for her patients and the team. She is kind, caring, and compassionate, and advocates for her patients on countless occasions.

"Martha has a truly wonderful kind heart, and she will always put her patients and their families at the forefront. She treats and cares for those around her as though they were her own family

"She is proactive, caring, and compassionate, and about to begin her nursing journey. I look forward to seeing her develop as a nurse and shine in her new role."

Christina Abarno – Multiple Sclerosis Clinical Trials Nursing Assistant
Christina was nominated by Ruth Linighan, Multiple Sclerosis Research Nurse, who praised her dedication to both patients and research colleagues:

"Chris has worked within multiple sclerosis research for over six years. She supports clinical and research teams, liaises with university researchers…providing them with samples, through speaking to potential participants. 

"She is dedicated and passionate about patient care, staying beyond her hours to reassure participants awaiting procedures and ensuring both they and their samples are safe."

Binu George, Matron of Neurosciences at OUH, said: "Congratulations to Christina, Cyril, and Martha for winning these prestigious awards. This is an incredible achievement and reflects your exceptional dedication, kindness, and compassion. Well done, we are very proud of you all."