The lead nurse for fighting infections at Stepping Hill Hospital and community NHS services has received a top national nursing award for her outstanding dedication and commitment.

Nesta Featherstone, Associate Nurse Director for the infection prevention service at Stockport NHS Foundation Trust, was presented with the Cavell Star Award in recognition of her achievements in the socially distanced company of colleagues and friends at the hospital.

Nesta first qualified as a nurse 32 years ago and has been based at Stepping Hill Hospital throughout her career. Since 2010 Nesta has headed the Infection Prevention team at the hospital, which leads on keeping patients safe fighting all kinds of infection in both hospital and community services, including MRSA, C-difficile, E-Coli and others.

With the coronavirus pandemic, the last year has seen the biggest challenge Nesta and the team have ever faced. They have worked tirelessly in trying to keep wards and departments infection free, encouraging vigilance and best practice in reducing the spread of COVID-19.  Since the reintroduction of patient services following the first lockdown, they have been instrumental in getting them working again, from children’s services to surgery. They have carried over 1500 ward inspections, and over 170 on-the-spot audits to help keep patients safe.

Nesta was nominated for her award by colleagues for her hard work and ongoing commitment during this extremely busy time. She was described by colleagues as always being on hand to take responsibility and offer the support needed, and having the unique ability to find solutions even when they seem limited. Nesta has kept up her commitment during a tough year which has also seen her face her own personal loss with the death of her father.

Nesta was presented with the award by Helen Howard, Deputy Chief Nurse for Stockport NHS Foundation Trust, who has worked with Nesta for several years. Helen said “Nesta has been outstanding the pandemic. I’ve been fortunate to support Nesta throughout this year and have observed her becoming a real guru for the organisation. I’m immensely proud of her dedication, commitment and continued efforts during difficult times. Even during her own personal loss Nesta has continued to work at the pace required to help keep patients, staff and the wider community safe. Nesta is a true star and deserves the recognition for her efforts, so it was a real pleasure to present her with the Cavell Star Award.”

The Cavell Nurses Trust is a charity which supports nurses, midwives, nursing associates and healthcare assistants, and its Star Awards are offered to outstanding members of these professions across the UK.