A CNIO acts as the link between clinical teams and digital services, making sure that technology is designed and used in ways that genuinely support medical professionals and improves care for patients.
At DBTH, Laura will work alongside colleagues across the Trust to ensure the voices of nurses, midwives and allied health professionals are central in shaping digital improvements.
Laura began her career in the NHS in 2011 as an Operating Department Practitioner, working across cardiac, thoracic, paediatric and general surgery at Nottingham University Hospitals and Oxford University Hospitals. She later moved into leadership roles including Theatre Team Leader for Cardiac and Paediatric Surgery and Specialty General Manager for Endoscopy and Bowel Cancer Screening.
Most recently, she has been Head of Operational Change in the Digital Electronic Patient Record (EPR) Programme at Sherwood Forest Hospitals. Alongside her career, Laura has completed an Master’s Degree in Business Administration and gained senior leadership qualifications with the Chartered Management Institute.
Speaking about her appointment, Laura said: “I am delighted to join Team DBTH. As CNIO, my aim is to ensure technology genuinely supports colleagues and patients, improves workflows, and enhances safety and quality.
“I want to amplify the voice of nurses, midwives, and AHPs in digital development and help shape a digitally enabled environment where colleagues thrive and patients receive the very best outcomes.”
As part of her role, Laura will contribute to the implementation of the Trust’s new Electronic Patient Record (EPR).
This major project will replace paper notes and multiple computer systems with a single, secure record for each patient. It will allow colleagues to see the right information at the right time, improving safety, reducing duplication, and making care more joined-up. For patients, this will mean fewer repeated questions, quicker results, and a smoother overall experience.
Welcoming Laura, Karen Jessop, Chief Nurse, and Dan Howard, Chief Information Officer, said: “We are pleased to welcome Laura as our new Chief Nursing Information Officer. This role will be key to ensuring that the clinical voice is at the heart of our digital journey. One of our strategic ambitions as an organisation is to become more digitally enabled and mature, and the EPR programme is a once-in-a-generation opportunity to transform the way we deliver care.
“Laura brings with her a wealth of experience across operational leadership, digital transformation and frontline practice, and we look forward to working with her as part of our digital team to deliver the benefits of innovation for our patients and communities.”
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The much-anticipated event will bring together more than 400 colleagues from across the organisation to celebrate the people, teams and projects that make an exceptional difference every day. From unsung heroes to passionate fundraisers, and from those driving innovation and sustainability to colleagues delivering outstanding care, the awards recognise the very best of DBTH.
Winners will be revealed at the ceremony on Thursday 6 November, marking an evening of celebration, recognition and appreciation for the hard work and dedication shown by colleagues across all areas of the Trust.
Suzy Brain England OBE, Chair of the Board, said: “I am delighted that next week we will gather to recognise the colleagues whose commitment, compassion and innovation make a real difference to the lives of our patients and the strength of our services.
“Our Star Awards are about more than trophies: They are a moment to shine a light on excellence, to say thank you, and to inspire everyone that their contribution matters.”
This year’s shortlist spans all areas of the Trust, featuring clinical and non-clinical teams, fundraisers, learners, sustainability champions and more. Categories include Unsung Hero, Change Champion, Fundraising Champion, Team Spirit, Health Equality Champion, Medical and Clinical Team of the Year, Corporate and Non-Clinical Team of the Year, Sustainability Champion, Teaching Hospital Award, Learner of the Year, Patient Champion and Star of the Year.
Among the nominees are colleagues and teams such as the Community Midwifery Team, Rehab 1 Therapy Team, Grounds and Gardens Team, Diabetic Eye Screening Team, and the Mexborough Elective Orthopaedic Centre of Excellence, all recognised for their dedication and contribution to patient care and service improvement.
The Star Awards are made possible thanks to the generosity of local sponsors and partners, as well as funding from proceeds of the Trust’s internal Staff Lottery, which supports activities and initiatives that benefit colleagues and patients across DBTH.
Suzy added: “This year’s celebration will be particularly special for me, as it will be my final Star Awards before I depart the Trust after nine years as Chair. It has been an immense privilege to serve this organisation and witness the incredible commitment of our colleagues. The Star Awards capture the very best of who we are – caring, dedicated and proud to serve our communities. Good luck to all of our nominees.”
The full shortlist can be viewed here: https://www.dbth.nhs.uk/news/dbth-star-awards-2025-the-shortlist/
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From unsung heroes to passionate fundraisers, from outstanding clinical care to the colleagues who champion sustainability and change – these awards recognise the very best of DBTH.
The winners will be revealed at our glittering ceremony at the Doncaster Dome on Thursday 6 November – an evening dedicated to celebrating your hard work, commitment, and achievements.
Without further ado, here’s our shortlisted nominees (in no particular order for any detectives out there):
Unsung Hero
For someone whose impact may go unnoticed by patients or the public, but whose contributions are vital. This award celebrates the quiet excellence that supports our services and colleagues.
- Craig Tingle
- Anthony French
- Katie Barnard
Change Champion
For an individual or team who has led the way in transforming how we work. Whether improving patient outcomes, driving efficiencies, saving money, or boosting morale – this award recognises innovation and positive change.
- Mandy Tyrell and the Virtual Ward
- Digital Self-enrolment for Learning Team
- Rapid Diagnostic Service LGI/UGI Two Week Wait
Fundraising Champion
A thank you to a colleague or supporter who has gone the extra mile to raise funds for our charity, supporting improvements to care, services and experience at DBTH.
- Community Midwifery Team
- Mark Wigham
- Inta Umure
Team Spirit Award
This award celebrates someone who lifts those around them – a colleague who champions wellbeing, values equality and diversity, and is always there when you need them. A role model for the supportive culture we’re building at DBTH.
- Karina Chadbourne
- Lindsay Munby
- Victoria Tarry
Health Equality Champion
This award celebrates work to address health inequalities – whether improving access, experience, or outcomes for underserved or disadvantaged communities. A commitment to fairness and inclusion that reflects the very best of the DBTH Way.
- Jemima Beaumont and Eye Screening Team
- Claire Ziolkowski
- Katie Simpson
Medical and Clinical Team of the Year
Awarded to a team delivering consistently high-quality clinical care, or one on a journey of improvement. The winners will demonstrate strong teamwork and a shared commitment to putting patients first.
- Winter Ward, Bassetlaw
- Mexborough Elective Orthopaedic Centre of Excellence (MEOC)
- Labour Ward, Bassetlaw
Corporate and Non-Clinical Team of the Year
This award recognises excellence among our administrative, support and facilities teams – from those delivering corporate and technical services to those in non-clinical and non-patient-facing roles. These teams embody the DBTH Way by enabling high-quality care behind the scenes.
- Medical Records and Clinic Prep Team
- Laundry Team
- Compliance Team
Sustainability Champion
For someone who has introduced or championed an initiative to make DBTH greener. This award recognises those who take action for the planet and for the long-term future of the Trust.
- Endoscopy Team
- Grounds and Gardens Team
- Green Theatre Team
Teaching Hospital Award
Presented to someone who supports others to learn and grow at DBTH. Whether an official mentor or an informal teacher, they inspire, encourage and share knowledge – helping us live up to our name as a teaching hospital.
- Jayan George
- Jodie Garratt
- Ross Barker
Learner of the Year
Recognising a colleague who embraces learning and development – whether through formal education, upskilling, or gaining new experiences. A champion of continuous improvement.
- Neethu Shaji
- Monika Kos
- Elizabeth Watkinson
Patient Champion
Awarded to a colleague who goes above and beyond for our patients, showing care, compassion and pride in their work every day.
- Richard Thompson
- Charlotte Walker
- Christine Clarke
Star of the Year:
This award recognises an exceptional colleague who has truly gone above and beyond in their role. They consistently exemplify the DBTH Way – showing kindness, taking pride in their work, and always striving to deliver the best possible care or service. A role model for Team DBTH. Nominees are made up of Star Award winners over the last 12 months. This list will be made available shortly.
- Aileen Knowles
- Nursing Workforces and central recruitment
- Michael Roys
- Amy Dun and Ellie Taylor
- Marian Ball
- Digital Team
- Anne Prior
- Bassetlaw Outpatients
- Dr Jochen Seidel
- Faye Bailey
- Clinical Audit Team
- Dr Kenneth Agwuh
- Susan Lamprell
- Iblaal Hussain
- Dr Dan Yarwood, Gemma Dance
- Gillian Prescott
- Ward 20 and End of Life Care teams
- Carol Orr
- Michael Wilkinson and Cerwys Guest
- Lindsey Arthur
- Rehab 1 Therapy Team
- Jenny Hunt
- Stoma Nurses
A huge congratulations to everyone shortlisted – this recognition is a testament to your hard work, passion, and dedication.
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The SCBU provides specialist care for babies who are born prematurely or require additional medical support in their early days of life. The team care not only for the newborns, but also offer vital support and reassurance to families during what can be a challenging time.
On 1 April 2025, Claire Harris, Foundation Manager for the Emily Harris Foundation, visited the unit to deliver a wide range of thoughtful items. These included welcome packs for new parents, food to set up a snack station, breastfeeding pillows, activity packs for siblings, and a Polaroid camera with film to help families capture special moments during their baby’s stay.
In addition to these items, the charity also provides ongoing support in a number of ways, such as funding weekly bus tickets for parents facing travel difficulties, covering costs for relevant staff training and study days, and helping families access psychological support – all with the aim of easing some of the pressures that come with having a baby in hospital.
Claire Harris, Foundation Manager at the Emily Harrison Foundation, said: “We’re delighted to be able to support the Special Care Baby Unit at Bassetlaw Hospital. Our mission is to make a positive difference for families during their neonatal journey, and we hope these items – and our ongoing support – help families feel cared for and connected. It’s a privilege to work with such a dedicated team.”
Just under 10% of live births in England and Wales are pre-term, equating to approximately 58,000 babies born before 37 weeks of pregnancy each year. Support during these earliest moments of life is crucial – helping to give babies the best possible start and laying the foundations for a healthy and independent future.
Caroline Davies, Ward Manager for the SCBU, added: “We are so grateful for this incredibly generous donation. These items will make such a difference to the experience of our families, helping them feel welcome, supported and cared for. We’re thrilled to have been chosen to receive this support.”
The Trust would like to thank Claire and the Emily Harris Foundation for their continued generosity and dedication to improving care for our smallest patients and their families.
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While the October half-term is a busy time for families, the Trust is asking people not to miss important check-ups, tests or procedures. Attending planned appointments helps avoid delays in care and supports hospital teams to use time and resources effectively.
If attending becomes difficult, it’s now easier than ever to rearrange. Patients can view, manage and, in many cases, rebook appointments quickly using the NHS App. The free app – available on smartphones, tablets and computers – allows users to see upcoming appointments, receive reminders, and cancel or rebook in just a few taps.
Denise Smith, Chief Operating Officer at DBTH, said keeping appointments is vital to ensuring everyone receives the care they need: “Whether it’s for you or your child, making time to attend a hospital appointment is an important part of staying well.
“If you can’t make it, please let us know as soon as possible or rearrange using the NHS App. Every appointment that goes ahead means more people are seen, and every cancellation made in advance helps us offer that slot to another patient who needs it.”
The Trust, which operates Doncaster Royal Infirmary, Bassetlaw Hospital and Montagu Hospital, hosts more than half a million outpatient appointments each year across its sites and external clinics in South Yorkshire and North Nottinghamshire.
To find out more about how the NHS App can help you stay on top of your appointments, visit: https://www.dbth.nhs.uk/patients-visitors/nhs-app/
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Within theatre departments alone, improvements in waste segregation have delivered an impressive 24% reduction in clinical waste – saving the equivalent of 13.95 tonnes of CO₂e compared to the same period in 2024. This success reflects the Trust’s commitment to protecting the environment while maintaining the highest standards of clinical safety.
By introducing a new waste segregation model, DBTH has significantly reduced its environmental footprint and achieved a £6000 cost saving in just five months. The switch from orange bags used for high-temperature incineration to yellow-striped ‘tiger’ bags for non-infectious waste has been central to this achievement.
The initiative has been driven by teamwork across the Trust – from Theatres, Infection Prevention and Control (IPC), and Facilities teams to waste provider partners such as Veolia – all coordinated through the DBTH Sustainability Group.
Lisa Quean, Sterile Services Manager at DBTH, said: “This award is fantastic recognition of what can be achieved through teamwork, communication and a shared commitment to reducing the impact of waste. By helping staff understand what belongs in each waste stream, we’ve made a big difference – reducing both costs and carbon emissions while keeping safety at the forefront. Starting in theatres, we’re now expanding these improvements across other clinical areas.”
Building on this momentum, DBTH is launching its new ‘Simpler Recycling’ initiative, in line with national legislation from the Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs (Defra). The scheme will make recycling clearer and easier for staff, starting at Montagu Hospital before rolling out to all Trust sites.
Adeola Bayode, Waste Manager at DBTH, said: “Our ‘Simpler Recycling’ initiative will help teams at Montagu Hospital to recycle more effectively at work, and we’re looking forward to extending this across all our sites in the near future. Colleagues have shown great enthusiasm for improving sustainability, and this project will make it easier than ever to turn that commitment into action.”
These successes form part of the Trust’s refreshed Green Plan (2025–2028), which builds on progress made since the first plan launched in 2022. The updated strategy sets out DBTH’s achievements so far and outlines clear priorities for the next three years – from reducing carbon emissions and improving energy efficiency, to promoting sustainable travel, procurement, and waste management across all sites.
Sam Wilde, Chief Finance Officer and Board-level Net Zero Lead, said: “At DBTH, our vision is clear: Healthier together — delivering exceptional care for all. This includes care for our environment. Through strong leadership, robust governance, and the commitment of our people, we will ensure sustainability becomes an integral part of how we plan, deliver and improve services. We thank all colleagues who have contributed to this work so far, and we look forward to building on this progress together in the years ahead.”
The DBTH Green Plan 2025–2028 is available to read on the Trust’s website: www.dbth.nhs.uk/dbth-green-plan-2025-28
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Funded by the South Yorkshire Integrated Care Board (SYICB) People Experience Team, the event brought to life key pillars of the Trust’s People Plan, particularly the “Growing for the Future” commitment to supporting and welcoming internationally educated colleagues. It also reflected the People Plan’s supporting pillar of “Belonging in Team DBTH”, which champions a workplace culture where every colleague feels valued, included, and proud to be part of the Trust community.
Throughout the day, attendees had the chance to connect with fellow international colleagues, sharing stories about their backgrounds, cultures, and experiences. Hosted by Airish Saluta, Infection Prevention and Control Specialist Nurse at DBTH and former Chair of the Internationally Educated Colleagues Network, the event featured engaging speeches and presentations from a range of colleagues across DBTH and SYICB. A highlight was a traditional Filipino dance performed by colleagues.
Brigitte Kaviani, Programme Director for People Experience at SYICB, said: “This event hosted by Airish was a celebration of bringing together our Internationally Educated colleagues at DBTH and those supporting them to showcase their career journeys and achievements. I am very pleased that my team was able to support running this event.”
Many participants wore traditional attire and hosted cultural stalls showcasing their national heritage. A wide array of international cuisine was also on offer, with buffet dishes representing the diverse backgrounds of the Trust’s workforce.
Zoe Lintin, Chief People Officer, said: “This event is always such a joyous occasion and a great opportunity to celebrate our fantastic international colleagues.
“We are so grateful that they chose to make Doncaster and Bassetlaw their home, and to dedicate their skills, knowledge and compassion to caring for our communities.
“The DBTH Way is at the heart of everything we do, ensuring that inclusivity and person-centred care are central to our approach. This is reflected in how we have recruited and retained colleagues from overseas over the years. Through their contributions, we continue to build a strong, diverse workforce – one where different experiences and practices of care come together to enhance our work and deliver quality outcomes for patients.”
Overseas recruitment has been a key approach at the Trust for maintaining a stable workforce and ensuring the delivery of high-quality services and patient care. By recruiting and retaining permanent skilled employees, the Trust can reduce its reliance on agency workers, allowing savings to be reinvested into improving patient care and facilities.
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Since launching the first Green Plan in 2022, the Trust, which operates Doncaster Royal Infirmary, Bassetlaw Hospital, and Montagu Hospital has successfully completed a number of green projects. It has phased out desflurane and removed piped nitrous oxide across all hospital sites, eliminating two anaesthetic gases with a high carbon footprint and saving thousands of pounds which have been directed back into patient care.
The organisation has also transitioned to 100% renewable electricity, significantly cutting emissions across its estate, and introduced recycling for colleagues and patients, beginning at Montagu Hospital before rolling out across all sites.
As a result of these initiatives, total carbon emissions have been reduced by 6,550 tonnes – the equivalent of taking around 1,400 cars off the road each year.
The Trust has also implemented improved clinical waste controls within Theatres and beyond, ensuring waste is both cost effective and has less impact on the environment. In addition, DBTH’s memorial gardens have all earned Green Flag Awards, recognising their high standards of maintenance and environmental care.
These achievements form part of the Trust’s ongoing commitment to sustainability and are supported by the launch of its refreshed Green Plan for 2025–2028, which sets out how DBTH will build on this progress and continue to reduce its impact on the environment.
As one of the largest employers and care providers in the country, the NHS recognises its significant contribution to the nation’s carbon footprint, being responsible for around 4 to 5% of the UK’s total emissions. In response, the NHS has set ambitious targets to reach net zero by 2040 for direct emissions and by 2045 for those it influences indirectly.
The Green Plan is a key NHS initiative providing trusts throughout England with a clear roadmap towards a more sustainable health service. Similarly, the DBTH Green Plan sets out how it will achieve these national goals and ensure that the organisation continues to deliver high-quality care today while protecting the health and wellbeing of future generations.
The refreshed sustainability plan focuses on nine key areas – from greener estates and travel to sustainable supply chains, food and clinical care. Future ambitions include decarbonising heat across hospital sites, investing in smart, energy-efficient buildings, expanding recycling and waste reduction schemes, supporting staff to choose active and low-carbon travel options, scaling up digital care and virtual wards to reduce travel emissions, and promoting sustainable and nutritious food options for patients and colleagues.
Sam Wilde, Chief Finance Officer acts as the Trust’s board level Net Zero Lead, and is supported by operational leads and a dedicated Green Plan Delivery Board.
Sam said: “At DBTH, our vision is clear: Healthier together—delivering exceptional care for all. This includes caring for our environment.
“Through strong leadership, robust governance, and the commitment of our people, we will ensure sustainability becomes an integral part of how we plan, deliver, and improve services. We thank all colleagues who have contributed to this work so far, and we look forward to building on this progress together in the years ahead.”
Find out more about the Green Plan at DBTH on the Trust’s website: www.dbth.nhs.uk/green-plan/
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The campaign aims to protect as many colleagues as possible ahead of winter, helping to keep themselves, their families, and those in their care – including patients and visitors – safe from flu and other respiratory illness.
The flu vaccine offers the best protection against the virus, reducing the risk of serious illness and helping to prevent outbreaks within healthcare settings. Vaccination also helps to protect the most vulnerable members of the community and supports the NHS by reducing winter pressures on services.
Leading by example, members of the Board of Directors were among the first to roll up their sleeves and receive their flu vaccination as part of the early clinics, encouraging colleagues across all sites to do the same.
To make it easy for colleagues to get protected, DBTH is offering regular drop-in clinics, roving vaccinators visiting wards and departments, and specially nominated colleagues within clinical areas who can vaccinate their own teams.
Dr Nick Mallaband, Acting Executive Medical Director at DBTH, said: “It’s fantastic to see such a strong start to our flu vaccination campaign, with one in ten colleagues coming forward in the first week. This quick uptake shows how seriously our teams take protecting themselves, their patients, and their loved ones.
“As the weather turns cooler and damper, we naturally start to see more respiratory illnesses such as rhinovirus, COVID-19 and flu. Getting vaccinated means one less thing to worry about – it helps protect you and those around you, keeping everyone a little safer this winter.”
Karen Jessop, Chief Nurse at DBTH, added: “Flu can be serious, particularly for people who are more vulnerable, such as those who are pregnant. We’re encouraging anyone who is expecting a baby to take up their free flu vaccination, which is available through our maternity clinics, GPs or local pharmacies. The vaccine is safe at any stage of pregnancy and helps protect both mother and baby.
“For everyone else, flu jabs are now available across Doncaster and Bassetlaw in most GP practices and community pharmacies, so please come forward as soon as you’re invited. Every vaccination helps protect you, your loved ones and our local NHS this winter.”
For more information about flu vaccination in pregnancy, visit www.dbth.nhs.uk
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Non-Executive Directors play a vital role in NHS organisations, bringing independent oversight, expertise and constructive challenge to ensure the highest standards of care, governance and performance are maintained.
Joining the Board is Stephen Radford, a qualified accountant with over 30 years of private and public sector experience gained across multiple sectors in the UK and internationally.
Prior to this appointment, Stephen served as Associate Non-Executive Director at Mid Yorkshire Hospitals NHS Trust and has held senior roles including Group and Divisional Finance Director, Head of Shared Services, Senior Vice President and Partner positions within global management consultancies.
Stephen lives locally in South Yorkshire and also serves as Audit Chair and Senior Independent Director at Barnsley Hospital NHS Foundation Trust.
Also confirmed is the reappointment of Jo Gander, Clinical Non-Executive Director, for a further three-year term. Jo chairs the Trust’s Quality Committee and is committed to ensuring patients, and the colleagues who care for them, are supported to deliver the very best standards of safety and experience.
Speaking about his appointment, Stephen said: “It’s a real privilege to join the Board at Doncaster and Bassetlaw Teaching Hospitals. My grandfather was from Worksop and my father from Tickhill, so I’ve always felt a close connection to this part of South Yorkshire and North Nottinghamshire. It means a great deal to now play a part in supporting the hospitals that serve these communities.”
Suzy Brain England OBE, Chair of the Board, said: “We are pleased to welcome Stephen to the Board and look forward to benefitting from his wealth of financial and governance expertise. His insight and experience will be invaluable as we continue to strengthen our leadership and deliver on our strategic ambitions for patients and colleagues across Doncaster, Bassetlaw and beyond.
On behalf of the Trust, I would also like to extend our sincere thanks to Hazel Brand, whose term has come to an end and who has served the organisation with great distinction as a Non-Executive Director, formerly as Lead Governor, and before that as Head of Communications and Engagement. Her dedication and contribution to DBTH over many years has been truly outstanding.”
These appointments come at a time of transition for DBTH. Later this year, Suzy Brain England OBE will step down as Chair at the end of her term in December 2025. Current Non-Executive Director Mark Bailey has been appointed Interim Chair of the Board, a position he will take up in January 2026.
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