A NURSING associate trainee at the John Radcliffe Hospital has been nominated for a national award recognising the pioneering work of the next generation of healthcare professionals.

Su Hickman, who works on the stroke unit has been shortlisted for Nursing Associate Trainee of the Year at the Student Nursing Times Awards.

She said she was 'humbled' to have been nominated, adding: "I am so proud to fly the flag for the trust.

"I have to thank my matron and ward sister and of course the OUH (Oxford University Hospitals) for providing me with this opportunity and for their support.

“I believe that OUH is a fantastic place to work with so many opportunities given. I am passionate and committed to promoting the nursing associate role and the positive effect is has on patient centred care.”

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She is up against 12 other nominees in her category, with the award evening to take place in London on April 24.

Sarah Wheeler, stroke unit matron, said: “Su has been a very enthusiastic nursing associate trainee and has championed the importance of the role in nursing.

“She is an integral part of the stroke patient pathway and, when she and her colleagues qualify, she will support the registered nurses to ensure that stroke patients get the life-changing treatment they need.

"It is an essential role to support the ground-breaking thrombectomy treatment now available to people who have had a stroke."