Kates nurses set judges' pulses racing

A DEDICATED team of volunteer nurses stole judges' hearts to win a national title.

Kate's Home Nursing was awarded Best Home Care Team in the Great British Care Awards.

The 22 nurses, who look after terminally-ill people in their own homes, cover the north Cotswolds.

Co-ordinated at Stow-on- the-Wold, they also help and support patients in Bourton-on-the-Water, Moreton-in-Marsh, and surrounding villages.

Nurse organiser Heather Mitchell said: "My nurses are the bee's knees – they're a magical mix of people, who all do different things, but come together to make an incredible team. Our honour is a real David and Goliath story as all the others were national players – we were the only charity."

Mrs Mitchell had nominated her team in secret.

They first scooped the regional award and then Mrs Mitchell, healthcare assistant Marlene Smart, and registered nurses Ruth Lees and Rachel Tyler had to impress at a final interview to come top of seven contestants.

Mrs Mitchell said: "The judges said they were blown away by our teamwork, and one was from the Department of Health. That makes this even more of a real validation of what my nurses do and is a recognition at national level of hospice at home.

"Every Kate's carer willingly and selflessly undertakes a journey each time they become involved with a family.

"They work alone in stressful, emotionally charged situations, and via a shared vision and belief in the fundamental tenets of our charity provide practical hands on care. They are dedicated, professional and demonstrate exemplary communication skills.

"This accolade is for every patient we've looked after – they've made us what we are."

The judges' winning criteria was for a team best able to "demonstrate a shared vision and agreed goals".

Its next fundraiser is Kate's Posh Picnic, with the Hot Cats Swing Band and Pimm's reception, on June 13, at Lower Farm, Oddington.

For tickets, visit www.kates homenursing.org.