L-R: Britta Klinck, Tom Lankester, Sarah Firth and Marie Crofts

Tom Lankester is a charge nurse at the Highfield Unit, which is an 18 bedded Children Adolescent Mental Health Service (CAMHS) unit. He started working at the Highfield back in 2013 when he was 18 years old as a health care assistant (HCA).

The nomination said: “He has been so helpful and made me feel more comfortable. He’s great at talking about anything and makes me laugh every time I see him. I’m so grateful for his support, he has never given up on me.”

Tom said: “I was completely shocked and blown away by receiving the award, but the loveliest surprise I think I’ve ever had.

“After three years as a HCA I then went to study mental health nursing at Kings College London and qualified in 2019. Following that I returned to the Highfield as a qualified nurse in late 2019. I was then promoted to the charge nurse position in March of this year.

“I work alongside patients in a primary nurse role and help plan/develop their care. I also take particular time to support the wider family unit, as any additional time that can be given to those families in crisis should be.

“I co-ordinate the ward and am the nurse in charge of the unit. I support patients in acute phases of distress and find ways to manage this in a safe containing way.

Tom Lankester next to the DAISY poster

“I also take pride in the staff support I offer. I provide regular supervision and take a leading role in developing student nurses on the Highfield unit and aim to improve their experience where possible.

“I am keen on focusing on junior staff development and inspiring those around me to pursue careers in nursing.”

The DAISY award scheme recognises the contribution of nurses who go above and beyond to help patients.

Oxford Health employs more than 1,700 nurses who are eligible to be nominated and, especially given the extra challenges the pandemic has brought it is never a better time to nominate your nurse who may have gone the extra mile to provide care for you at home or been supportive during your stay at one of our wards.

We want to hear from you if you believe your nurse has provided outstanding care and you can make a nomination here.

To find out more about the DAISY Awards visit our dedicated webpage.