Deborah’s background

In a major development in 2020, the government appointed Professor Deborah Sturdy OBE as England's Chief Nurse for adult social care. Serving as a member of the Nursing Times editorial advisory board, Professor Sturdy started her new role on December 21st 2020, under the Department of Health and Social Care (DHSC). 

Deborah has become a prominent voice for social care nurses on a national level, tirelessly advocating for their interests within the government. Professor Sturdy's appointment was met with her own sense of honour, as she became the first to undertake this vital role. 

Collaborating closely with the Minister for Care and the Chief Nursing Officer, Deborah ensures the delivery of high-quality, personalised, and integrated care for the betterment of adult social care in England.

Her visit to Woodside Grange

St Martins Care was chosen to participate in a project led by Deborah Sturdy in collaboration with Skills for Care. As part of our collaboration with the steering group, St Martins Care extended an invitation to Deborah to visit Woodside Grange.

Her visit aimed to assist in the development of a national framework for healthcare delegation and to create a set of guiding principles. St Martins Care was among one of the six sites that successfully secured grant funding to investigate a specific aspect of delegated activities.

This visit allowed her to observe delegation practices in a real-life setting and also shed light on our partnership with the local authority, the integrated care board, and North Tees and Hartlepool NHS Foundation Trust. We showcased our innovative initiatives focused on reducing hospital admissions and enhancing outcomes for the residents under our care.

Deborah showed particular interest in our utilisation of the apprenticeship levy for training nursing associates, establishing a career progression from entry-level to registered nurse within a span of 7 years, all without incurring student debt. Additionally, she was intrigued by our project supporting final-year apprenticeship paramedics, who gain experience through placements in our care homes. This initiative aims to increase their understanding of care homes, social care, and the support provided to individuals with dementia and other cognitive impairments.

Congratulations Hayley!

In a heartwarming moment of recognition and appreciation, Deborah also awarded Hayley Robertshaw - our Director of Care at St Martins Care - a Chief Nurse for Adult Social Care Award. Hayley was nominated by Juliet Green from Skills for Care because of her work with The Delegated Healthcare National Project. 

This prestigious award stands as a testament to Hayley's unwavering dedication and tireless efforts in the realm of social care. It serves as a symbol of her exceptional leadership, passion, and commitment to enhancing the lives of those under her care. 

Hayley said, “It was a total surprise to receive the silver Chief Nurse award and an honour to be recognised.” 

Deborah's gesture not only acknowledges Hayley's remarkable achievements but also highlights the importance of celebrating the unsung heroes who make a huge difference in the lives of individuals and communities through their invaluable work in social care.