Nurse who 'stepped up when it mattered most' for vulnerable patient is recognised with prestigious award
A staff nurse at University Hospitals of Derby and Burton has been recognised for her outstanding compassion and dedication after receiving a Cavell Star Award.
Kelly Field, Staff Nurse on Ward 312 at Royal Derby Hospital, was presented with the award by Deputy Chief Nurse Mark Hill in recognition of the exceptional care she provides to patients and her support to colleagues.
Kelly, who has worked at the Trust for 14 years, was nominated by Sister on the ward, Haley Horspool, following her remarkable support for a patient with complex needs.
Going above and beyond for patients
In her nomination, Haley described how Kelly “absolutely excelled” in caring for a particularly challenging patient, building trust and providing reassurance in a busy ward environment.
Kelly took the time to understand the patient’s individual needs, using a calm and compassionate approach to develop a therapeutic relationship. She supported the patient with personalised strategies, including creating a mood board and accompanying them to see artwork around the hospital, helping to reduce anxiety and improve their experience.
Haley said, “She was outstanding and really stepped up as a team lead. The patient wanted to be with her all the time. She’s just a dedicated team member who truly made a difference.”
‘I was just doing my job’
Speaking after receiving the award, Kelly praised her colleagues and reflected on the strength of the team on Ward 312. She said: “It’s amazing to get the Cavell Award - absolutely amazing. For me, I was just doing my job."
"My colleagues are like my family - that’s how we work together. I’m just really proud of them.”
Kelly explained that her passion for nursing comes from helping others and making a difference every day, “I became a nurse because I love helping people and making a difference. I enjoy talking to my patients and being there for them.
"The last few months have been hard - but we worked together as a team and supported each other. I have the best boss and a great team around me, and that’s why I can be the best I can be here.”
An inspiring role model
In her nomination, Haley highlighted Kelly’s ability to lead by example and inspire others, describing her as a “loyal and valuable member of the team” with exceptional clinical skills and a calm, reassuring presence.
Kelly’s approach not only improved outcomes for her patient, but also demonstrated to colleagues the impact of personalised, compassionate care, particularly in busy clinical settings.
Haley added, “She showed what can be achieved through one-to-one care, compassion and truly listening to patients.”
Recognising exceptional nursing care
The Cavell Star Award recognises nurses and midwives who go above and beyond to deliver exceptional care.
Mark Hill, Deputy Chief Nurse, who presented the award to Kelly at Royal Derby Hospital, said, “Kelly’s nomination really stood out because it shows the difference truly personalised, compassionate care can make. This recognition comes during International Nurses Day week, a time to celebrate the vital role nurses play in patient care and the difference they make every day across UHDB. Kelly’s award highlights the compassion, skill and dedication shown by nursing colleagues across the Trust, particularly in busy and challenging environments like Ward 312.
"This is exactly the kind of care we want to see across our services - where patients feel listened to, respected and supported, even in the most challenging situations. Kelly’s actions not only improved the patient’s experience but also set a powerful example for colleagues about the impact of kindness, patience and clinical skill combined.”