A MENTAL health workers has been recognised for their efforts at an annual awards ceremony.

Donna Greenwood, a community mental health team manager, and Doris Gunuza, a staff nurse, both based at Parklands Hospital, were presented with a Star Award at an event on December 7.

The event, organised by Southern Heath NHS Foundation Trust, recognised more than 200 staff across the southern NHS region.

The duo were presented with the award for Southern Health Stars Award.

The pair were praised for their calmness and ability to deal with pressure when they had to deal with an evacuation at the Aldermaston Road facility, ensuring all the patients were safe and warm.

All the award winners were chosen from nominations received from staff, patients, services users, families and members of the public.

Southern Health’s new chief executive, Nick Broughton, hosted the event. He said: “This is my second year hosting this extraordinary event that celebrates our hardworking staff.

“Every nomination is a reflection of the passion, hard work and commitment our staff provide to the people they support every day. I continue to be proud to lead an organisation with such a passionate workforce that is committed to delivering the best possible care to those who use our services.”

At the event, there was also a lifetime achievement award presented Sarah Wood who works at Dame Mary Fagan House.

The physiotherapist received the award for her 30 plus years of service to the health service.

The nomination citation for Sarah from Laura Rugman read: “She [Sarah] has always been supportive to those she has worked with whether they are a person with a learning disability, a parent, a carer or a colleague, she is always happy to provide advice or re-assurance too.”

“She is always up beat and has a can-do attitude with an enthusiasm that out shines everything.”