Royal Berkshire Hospital
A&E Department Awards
The John Sykes Foundation proudly celebrates its long-standing collaboration with the A&E Department of the Royal Berkshire Hospital, with the “Team Member of the Month” Award, a tradition that has continued to recognise the incredible dedication and hard work of our frontline healthcare staff in Reading. The award was created to celebrate the often unsung heroes of the A&E Team. Over the years, it has highlighted the exceptional efforts of individuals who consistently go above and beyond to provide outstanding patient care.
The winners of the monthly award are voted for by team members in the department and have ranged from Health Care Assistants, Consultants, Pharmacists, Radiographers, Play Workers, and the Housekeeping team. There have been in excess of 70 winners thus far, who have selected a prize donated by the Foundation, ranging from gift vouchers to special prizes from Majestic Wines, Lush, Nirvana Spa, and more.
The award was first established when the Foundation were contacted by the Department’s Lead Consultant, Dr Omar Nafousi, in 2019 who wanted to boost staff morale. Since then, the award has brought a new wave of excitement.
Dr. Nafousi commented on some of the winners:
Jessica (Nurse): “Your positive attitude on the bleakest of days inspires us all. You rally the team on nights and bring us together when we need it most. Always willing to help and never one to give up, you truly are a well-deserved recipient.”
Sarah (Emergency Nurse Practitioner): “You have taken on the role as Emergency Department Multidisciplinary Unit lead at your stride and have made a fantastic job of it. Never one to turn down a challenge, you are always around to lend a helping hand and guide those of us who need it.”
Carrie (Paediatric Play Worker): “Your continued support, empathy and compassion towards parents is outstanding. No matter the business of the department you ensure you take time to talk and support parents and family. You always ensure you communicate with the children and their families to explain procedures and treatments in such a calming and reassuring tone, and that you put those involved at ease.”
The initiative remained steadfast even during the unprecedented challenges of the Covid-19 pandemic. Throughout that difficult time, the awards served as a beacon of appreciation for the tireless efforts of the Emergency Department staff, who were on the frontline of the fight against the virus.
John Sykes commented, “The resilience, compassion, and professionalism of the Royal Berkshire Hospital Emergency Department team have been nothing short of extraordinary. We are immensely proud to continue recognising their hard work and dedication. This award is our way of saying thank you and acknowledging their unwavering commitment to our local community in Reading.”
Since 2023, the initiative has grown to include the “Quarterly Recognition Award,” highlighting those across the hospital who assist in the A&E Department. This new award has fostered a culture of appreciation and motivation among staff, showcasing the entire hospital’s exceptional team spirit.
Two recent winners of this award were Sukhi (Voluntary Services Manager) and Zahraa (Pharmacist), whereby Dr. Nafousi commented:
Sukhi: “As part of the RBH Volunteers Team, you have always gone that extra mile to support projects for both staff and patients in our Emergency Department. No job is too big and you go above and beyond for us as a team. This level of dedication and support has not gone unnoticed by us, and we thank you for everything you do.”
Zahraa: “You work tirelessly outside ED to give us the best service you can. Always at hand to support us and give advice, your commitment to making the lives of our patients and our staff better has not gone unnoticed. Thank you Zahraa for everything you do everyday.”