Adrian Anim, from Newcastle, has won the Social Care Nurse Award in the North East Great British Care Awards 2022 for the second year in a row. The accolade has also secured him a place in the finals for the same category in the national round of the awards, also for the second time running.
Adrian is a Learning Disability Nurse, and works as a Neuropsychiatry Community Practitioner with the Neuropsychiatry Outpatients Department at Walkergate Park Hospital, run by Cumbria, Northumberland, Tyne and Wear NHS Foundation Trust.
I have never encountered a nurse who is as caring, friendly, passionate, kind and as fun as you. You put so much care and attention into every single thing you do.
Adrian's nomination
Adrian’s nomination for the awards came as a result of feedback given by the mother of a patient who Adrian supported.
In her nomination, the local mum said: “You’ve only been working with [my son] and myself for a short time, and I’m already blown away by you.
“I have never encountered a nurse who is as caring, friendly, passionate, kind and as fun as you. You put so much care and attention into every single thing you do.
“Your support over the past few months has helped me more than you could ever know – to know that I have someone like you behind me in getting [my son] on the right track has taken a huge weight off my mind.
“If there were more people like you, the world would be a much better place.”
Adrian had worked as a decorator for 20 years before deciding to switch careers and become a nurse at 40.
Explaining why he decided to make the change, Adrian says: “I had been decorating some homes for people with learning disabilities, and I absolutely loved being around them, engaging with them – I spent more time talking than painting!
“It was from there that I decided to work as a support worker for a few years, before applying to university to qualify as a nurse. Having left school with no qualifications, I completed different courses and went to evening classes to gain what I needed to be accepted onto the course. I was over the moon getting the place at Northumbria University, and completing my degree was my biggest achievement by far.”
Adrian is passionate about his job. “I’m part of a great and very supportive team. I love meeting with patients, families, and care staff and most importantly, I love seeing the positive impact our work can have on people – seeing patients’ quality of life significantly improve.
“Being nominated for this award is something that I’m very proud of. Hard work is always appreciated by those in need, and I’m pleased it’s been recognised. Any role in the care sector can be tough at times, but also so fulfilling.”
Sue Lawrence, Adrian’s manager, said: “Adrian has only been working as part of the Neuropsychiatry Outpatients Team for a few weeks, but we are so impressed by his determination to provide an excellent level of care and of his achievements.
“Adrian strives to continue to develop his skills, and is keen to help and pass his knowledge onto others. Adrian is an asset to the Trust, and he is an inspiration to others.
“The whole team would like to say well done Adrian, and we wish you ‘good luck’ at the National Award Ceremony!
Adrian is also a Nurse Ambassador for the NHS NextGen Nurse programme, and actively involved with the Future Learning Disability Nurse network.
Adrian is a genuinely fantastic nurse…He brings realism, compassion and understanding to the network while inspiring and helping others to be the best they can be.
Michaela NuttallDirector of Learn with Nurses CIC
NextGen Nurse is a national programme promoting nursing as an aspirational career of choice to young people and giving them an insight into the different roles and opportunities available in nursing today. The target group is young people aged 14-18, and ambassadors such as Adrian are crucial in debunking myths and perceptions and showcasing the opportunities in a career in nursing, in particular for boys in this age group.
The Future Learning Disability Nurse network works in partnership with children and adults with learning disabilities, their families, and carers to enhance their health and wellbeing.
Michaela Nuttall is the Founder and Director of Learn with Nurses CIC, which runs the Future Learning Disability Nurse network.
Praising Adrian’s win, Michaela said: “Adrian is a genuinely fantastic nurse. As an active member of the Future LD Nurse network, he has supported many students, not just those in his area. He brings realism, compassion and understanding to the network while inspiring and helping others to be the best they can be.”
The regional Great British Care award judges commented: “Adrian began his career 8 years ago […] and has been ensuring best client outcomes ever since, achieving accreditation for his work in the Nursing Times.
“He clearly has a passion for learning and development, and aims to educate the younger generation and inspire them.”
The Great British Care Awards are a celebration of excellence across the care sector. The awards pay tribute to those individuals who have demonstrated outstanding excellence within their field of work.
The national award’s winners are due to be announced in March next year.