Given in celebration of the best in nursing, the annual RCN Awards were presented at Congress this week in Newport, Wales and awarded to those who have given an outstanding contribution to nursing and the RCN. This includes the prestigious Steward of the Year award which recognises those who have 'gone that extra mile to help their colleagues' and have 'made a difference in their workplace', showing 'outstanding commitment to the RCN and its members'.
Yvonne Lewis, an RCN Steward at the Leeds Teaching Hospitals NHS Trust and retired ward sister in paediatrics was recognised with a commendation in the Steward of the Year award. Yvonne demonstrated that she is an 'exceptional RCN steward' with achievements in representation and consultation and helped resolve workplace issues or disputes.
Yvonne has been nursing for some 47 years, beginning her career as a nurse auxiliary in 1977 before completing her training at the Huddersfield Royal Infirmary in 1979. Whilst a ward sister, she completed a degree in Nursing Practice at the University of Leeds.
In tandem with her professional career, Yvonne became a steward in 2009 and has worked tirelessly to provide support, help and advice to members for over 15 years to make a real difference in her workplace. Yvonne retired as a senior sister in Paediatrics at the Leeds Teaching Hospitals NHS Trust in 2014, but returned to continue as an RCN steward.
She has also played a vital part in the governance of the RCN locally and has been an active member of the RCN West Yorkshire Branch, holding a number ofroles including Branch Treasurer, Secretary and Chair.
Sarah Dodsworth, Regional Director for RCN Yorkshire & the Humber Region said: “In her role as an RCN steward, Yvonne truly goes above and beyond for members in and outside the workplace. She draws on a long career in nursing and cares deeply about patients, nursing, the nursing family and the RCN. She is well respected by staff, members, and managers at her workplace.
“Yvonne does everything she can for both members and her local branch. She works tirelessly for the RCN and is an incredible advocate for how RCN reps can work together for better outcomes. She is an exceptional role model and I’m immensely proud of everything she has achieved. Yvonne deserves recognition for her hard work and commitment”.
Award recipient Yvonne Lewis said: “I’m honoured to have been nominated and awarded a commendation. I could not do my role without the support of colleagues in my workplace. It’s been a privilege and honour to be a nurse, care for patients and support RCN members”.
Tracey McErlain-Burns, Chair of the RCN Yorkshire & the Humber Board said: “Yvonne is a fantastic steward. She has worked incredibly hard to support members and ensure that the voice of nursing is heard far and wide. I am delighted to see her work recognised at RCN Congress this year.”
