Healthcare professional of the year
This award recognises a clinical professional whose care has made a lasting impression on patients and those around them. Through their knowledge, judgement and dedication to their profession, they set a high standard for clinical care and patient experience.
Rachel Torrington
Safeguarding Adults
Rachel works as a High Intensity User Nurse, supporting some of the Trust's most complex patients. Many of the people she works with have a combination of medical, mental health and safeguarding needs, requiring input from multiple services.
Rachel brings together specialists from across the hospital, community teams and partner organisations to help patients access the right support and reduce repeated use of emergency and urgent care services.
Rachel is known for her ability to build relationships across organisations and keep patients at the centre of often complex situations. She advocates for people who may struggle to navigate services and ensures they receive support that’s appropriate to their needs.
While doing this work, she has completed a master’s degree and had her research published. She is also a valued source of support within a small team, regularly stepping into additional safeguarding responsibilities when needed.
Maria Barfoot
Dermatology
Maria is a highly experienced dermatology nurse who supports patients with complex inflammatory skin conditions including psoriasis, eczema and hidradenitis suppurativa. She combines specialist clinical expertise with a strong understanding of the wider impact these long-term conditions can have on patients’ lives.
Alongside her clinical work, she has improved dermatology services by streamlining pathways and expanding access to specialist treatments.
Maria is widely respected by both patients and colleagues for her knowledge, good judgement and willingness to support others. She provides leadership within the multidisciplinary team, sharing her expertise through mentorship and clinical supervision. More recently, she has taken on an Advanced Nurse Practitioner role, reflecting the level at which she has been working for many years.
Whether supporting patients in specialist dermatology clinics or helping colleagues navigate increasingly complex challenges, Maria brings a calm, thoughtful approach that is felt throughout the service.
Dr Georgia Smith
Maternity
Georgia has led several improvements in maternity care, including the local implementation of the RCOG OASI Care Bundle and the introduction of the ONIRY Spectrometer to support the assessment of severe perineal injuries.
She is also leading research into the prevention of postpartum perineal breakdown, with the potential to improve recovery and quality of life for women far beyond our organisation.
Colleagues describe Georgia as an outstanding clinician who combines research, education and patient care. She is recognised for sharing her expertise, supporting the development of others and embedding evidence-based practice across maternity services, strengthening care for women and families.