RJAH staff and volunteers hailed as Oswestry heroes

Staff and volunteers at The Robert Jones and Agnes Hunt Orthopaedic Hospital have been recognised in the Local Heroes Awards, organised and ran by Oswestry Life magazine. 

Ellie Baldwin, Healthcare Assistant at the Oswestry-based hospital, was hailed with the NHS Heroes Award, whilst the Volunteers Team at the Headley Court Veterans’ Orthopaedic Centre were presented with the Volunteer of the Year Award.  

Oswestry Life magazine organise the Local Heroes Awards to honour and celebrate those who are making significant contributions to the local community through their time, actions, talents and dedication.  

Ellie received a nomination from Jade Baldwin, who said: “Through her own personal health, Ellie has fought hard to get her job and dedicate herself to helping those who need it most. 

“She treats her patients as people with feelings, and not like a medical case.” 

Ellie is part of the Montgomery Unit team, who care for patients with bone and soft tissue tumours, as well as the Chair of the Staff Disability and Neuro-Diverse Network. 

She said: “I am extremely grateful to have received this recognition. Like many, I have a disability and for a large part of my life, I have faced seizures, at some point often daily. 

“I am proud to work on Montgomery Unit, who are such a welcoming team, and delighted to chair the Staff Disability Network, a community of many interesting, talented and caring people who want to encourage that voice of others and take away limitations regarding disability.” 

The Veterans’ Volunteer Team received several nominations from the public, with one of the nominations saying: “Six months ago, I walked into the Veterans’ Centre at RJAH as a shadow of my former self, having been diagnosed with Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) post-military service. 

“Without the support, signposting and tenacity of the volunteers I wouldn’t be here, and I certainly wouldn’t be starting a new business.” 

Volunteers in the Headley Court Veterans’ Orthopaedic Centre often tend to be veterans themselves and aim to provide a holistic wrap around support service for veteran patients and their family. 

Victoria Sugden, Charity Director, said: “Our volunteers do a remarkable job in dedicating their time to supporting our patients, visitors and staff. 

“It’s fantastic to see their time, energy and enthusiasm recognised by the Oswestry Life Local Hero Awards.”