A PALLIATIVE care nurse was chosen as a regional finalist in the Great British Care Awards.

April Donohue has worked at Goatacre Manor Care Centre, near Calne, since 2013 and specialises in caring for patients with end-of-life care. She was one of ten finalists for the award for the south west, out of hundreds of entries. “I was absolutely over the moon to have been shortlisted for this award” said April.

“It is a wonderful honour to be nominated for a role I love to do.

“At the end of the day it’s my job, and to know that I am able to make such a difference to people and their families at such a crucial time, is incredibly humbling."

The nurse attended an awards ceremony at Ashton Gate Stadium, Bristol, on Friday October 25, where she learned she had been pipped at the post to the title.

“I had a lovely evening and loved dressing up for the gala dinner,” added April. “I didn’t win but to be in the last 10 is such an achievement."

April was nominated by the home’s operations director and registered manager, Steve Oswald, in recognition of her skills and compassion in supporting residents and their families.

Steve said: “We are absolutely delighted that April has been recognised for the incredible work she does. The feedback we receive from families is always around how supportive April has been, and how relaxed she makes the families feel, to make the most of the time they have left together.

“We know how hard April works so it’s great that others will now be able to see it too. We wish her the very best of luck and have everything crossed that she is successful.”