Porter's national award for 'outstanding service'

A hospital porter has won a national award for her work supporting patients at a hospital's emergency department.

Laura Ward, a porter at Bradford Royal Infirmary, was awarded the "outstanding contribution to patient experience" prize at the MyPorter Awards at a recent ceremony in London.

Ms Ward, who joined the team in 2023, was described as a "great ambassador to portering services, Bradford Teaching Hospitals and the wider NHS".

Her colleague, Steve Armatage, was a finalist in the "newcomer of the year" category for his work supporting patients with learning disabilities.

Reacting to the award, Ms Ward said: "To be nominated was a shock in itself, but to come first out of all the nominations and the amazing people shortlisted was a feeling unmatched."

Mr Armatage was praised for his use of Makaton to help calm a patient with a learning disability who was "alone and distressed".

Organised by GV Healthcare and NHS England, the awards recognise the work of portering services in hospitals and the healthcare industry.

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