She wrote in Miriam’s nomination:

“Miriam put my daughter first.  She showed excellent listening skills, acknowledged her feelings, and worked with her to reduce her anxiety and feelings of overwhelm.  She enabled her to keep herself safe and think of ways to improve her present situation and to plan a successful future bearing her difficulties in mind.

“Miriam enabled my daughter to embark on recovery and start to see ways in which her future could be achievable. Miriam was instrumental in my daughter moving forward and changing her thinking. Miriam used a practical approach to planning timelines. She took a genuine interest in my welfare and my own mental health, and actively encouraged me to protect myself and focus on myself as well as my daughter.

The team celebrating with Miriam – from left: Yasmin Benbow (CT1 Doctor), Ginny Hsueh (Medical Support Worker), Layla Hamadi (Clinical Psychologist), Mateus Gomes (Support Worker), Natalia Campos (Clinical Nurse Lead), Miriam Garcia (Occupational Therapist), Sylvia Pyatt (Dietitian) and Sharon Ryan (Nurse Consultant)

The nomination also recognised Miriam’s continuing commitment after inpatient care at Cotswold House:

“When my daughter was discharged to a virtual day patient, Miriam made sure we had her contact details and told us she was always available to be contacted by email and on the phone. When I was struggling with the situation after discharge, she spoke to me on the phone on more than one occasion to reassure, support and encourage me.

“Miriam really genuinely cares and strives to get the best for her patients and their carers.  It is sometimes hard to access support as a carer, but Miriam made this possible.  She is a true credit to herself and her profession, and genuinely deserves an award and recognition.”

Miriam received her award from Modern Matron Ellen Tutisani and their whole team celebrated with them. Miriam said:

“I would like thank the patient’s family member for her kind words and Ellen for her unconditional support.”