Putting patients first earns Kirsty RJAH Stars recognition

A Healthcare Assistant at The Robert Jones and Agnes Hunt Orthopaedic Hospital has been recognised for her compassion and professionalism – after going the extra mile to support a patient with complex safeguarding needs. 

Kirsty Sperring, who works in Main Outpatients, has been presented with May’s RJAH Stars Award after being nominated by colleagues Liz Reece, Main Outpatients Manager, and Matthew Wright and Jane Morgan, Staff Nurses. 

The incident took place during an evening clinic, where a patient arrived unaccompanied and presented with safeguarding concerns.  

Kirsty immediately recognised the need to escalate the situation and supported the patient throughout their entire visit, including staying well beyond her shift to ensure the patient was safe, arranging a taxi and accompanying them until she was confident they were safely on their way home. 

Liz said: “Kirsty showed such compassion and care with this vulnerable patient who needed support. She made sure everything was in place and was exceptional.” 

Matthew added: “She went above and beyond when dealing with this situation, ensuring the patient was treated with the utmost respect and dignity. It was handled with incredible professionalism.”  

Jane said: “Kirsty is professional, has excellent communication skills with patients and colleagues and is always helpful, often going beyond her role – she’s been a great support to the team.” 

Kirsty was off work for several months following the nominations being submitted, making the recognition even more of a surprise.  

She said: “I’d been off for a few months as I had surgery and then had some complications, so this was a total shock. 
 
“I think about this patient all the time. As soon as she walked in I knew she needed help, so I didn’t let her out of my sight. She’s in my heart and I’ll always think about her. 
 
“To win this award means a lot. It’s nice to be recognised for doing something good and I’m really happy that I’ve got it.” 

The RJAH Stars Award is a monthly staff recognition initiative that celebrates individuals or teams who have demonstrated exceptional commitment to patient care, teamwork, and hospital values. 

Winners receive a certificate and a voucher in recognition of their efforts, as well as the appreciation of colleagues and patients alike. 

Stacey Keegan, Chief Executive, presented the award to Kirsty. She said: “Kirsty’s actions are a shining example of the compassionate care we strive for at RJAH.  

“She went above and beyond in a challenging situation, showing incredible empathy, professionalism and commitment to our values. She’s a deserving recipient of the RJAH Stars Award.”