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NHS HEROES IN CAITHNESS SHORTLISTED FOR SCOTTISH HEALTH AWARDS
A diabetes specialist nurse in Caithness, who has revolutionised community diabetes services in the Highlands by bringing care to patients in more remote and rural areas has been shortlisted for a high-profile honour at the this year's Scottish Health Awards.

Pamela Campbell has taken the lead in developing the specialist diabetes care team at North Highland Community Health Partnership in Caithness. She has taken specialist care into North Highland communities by setting up teams of dietitians and podiatrists who run clinics, providing care to patients where they need it most - in their local areas.

Heathcare staff across the North Highland community have also benefited from multi-disciplinary education and training programmes, developed by Pamela. She is also currently developing group education schemes which will bring people with diabetes from remote Highland areas together, to learn more about their condition and share experiences with healthcare professionals.

In recognition of the knowledge, skills and tireless commitment that she has brought to patients and community health staff, Pamela has reached the finals of the Scottish Health Awards 2006 after being nominated for the Nurses' Award by her colleagues at the North Highland Community Partnership.

A domestic supervisor in Caithness has also been rewarded for the dedication and drive she has demonstrated in increasing staff morale at Caithness General Hospital and improving the hospital environment for patients in the wake of a tragic event.

In honour of her hard work and sunny attitude admired by staff and patients, Henretta Simpson has been shortlisted for the Support Workers' category at the Scottish Health Awards. Following the untimely death of her fellow supervisor at the age of 43, she has worked extended hours to ensure a high standard of cleanliness and a pleasant environment for patients and staff.  Her compassionate and committed approach has helped to heal and motivate staff and patients.

Scottish Health Minister, Andy Kerr, said: "These nominations for the Scottish Health Awards are a testament to the hard work and dedication of NHS staff in the Highlands. Unsung heroes in the NHS make a difference every day, and they should be recognised for their commitment to the NHS and to patients.

"The Scottish Health Awards are designed to reward all individuals in the NHS for their valuable work in helping others and saving lives. That's why the awards cover every NHS worker, from those who volunteer their time, those who help to keep the hospitals and facilities clean, to the specialist clinical staff. All are equally important in delivering high quality health care for patients in Scotland."

Roger Gibbins, Chief Executive of NHS Highland said: "I am absolutely delighted that Pamela and Henretta have received the recognition they deserve. The geography of the highlands is such that we are especially dependent on our staff in the more outlying areas to take the lead and share their expertise and learning throughout the community.

These nominations are a great boost to morale, not only for those shortlisted but also for the other members of staff who are involved with them. All the staff in the NHS Highland area demonstrate a tremendous commitment to the patients in the area."

Local people are being thanked for pledging their support for NHS workers who have shown commitment and tireless dedication to patients and the community. The winners of the Scottish Health Awards 2005 will be announced in Edinburgh on Thursday 10 November 2005, at a gala dinner award ceremony.