Nurse Amanda crowned union learning rep of the year

Published: 23 April 2013

A nurse from Lincolnshire has received a coveted national award from her professional union to recognise her work as a champion of lifelong learning.

Amanda Eliff, an orthopaedic nurse at Boston’s Pilgrim Hospital, was named Learning Representative of the Year at the Royal College of Nursing’s annual congress in Liverpool.

The award is presented to the Learning Representative judged to have made an exceptional contribution to the RCN in the last 12 months.

As an accredited Learning Representative at United Lincolnshire Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust, Amanda promotes learning and development opportunities for nursing staff at the trust which aim to maintain and improve the knowledge and skills they rely on to deliver good care for patients.

Although the role is voluntary, the trust gives Amanda time off from her nursing job to do it and involves her in the planning of staff learning and development activities.

Amanda said: "I was astounded to win the award, mainly because I see that if we all do a little bit and work together, we achieve a lot. So, to be singled out is very special."

Watched by her husband and two children, Amanda accepted her award from Dr Peter Carter, the RCN’s Chief Executive and General Secretary, at the opening ceremony of the College’s annual congress, the biggest event on the UK nursing calendar.

Dr Carter said: "Amanda has built connections right across her hospital and also ensures that the Chief Nurse is well aware of the latest learning and development opportunities available to them."

Amanda was nominated for the award by Roger Hancock, a retired nurse and chair of the RCN’s South Lincolnshire branch. Roger said: "Amanda’s passion for learning and professional development is outstanding. She has worked tirelessly in promoting the RCN and the South Lincolnshire branch."

Amanda has worked at Pilgrim Hospital since qualifying as a registered nurse in September 1999. Before that she worked as a senior health care assistant in a residential home.