Seven nurses have been honoured with prestigious awards.

The nurses from Buckinghamshire Healthcare NHS Trust were surprised with the Chief Nursing Officer (CNO) Silver Award by Regional Chief Nurse Andrea Lewis for their exceptional contributions to nursing.

Nurses Steph Hartley, Jael Ramcharitar, Ann Poll, May Parsons, Anne Hutton, Jo Shackleton, and Jose Facultad received the award.

Ms Hartley, a nurse consultant for ophthalmology, was recognised for her leadership and innovation, which have helped improve patient care.

Ms Ramcharitar, lead nurse for diagnostics, was commended for her excellent leadership and dedication to improving patient safety and experience.

Ms Poll, Health on the High Street project manager, was acknowledged for her commitment and care for children and young people with learning disabilities.

Ms Parsons, associate chief nurse, was recognised for her contributions to healthcare, including administering the first COVID-19 vaccine outside of clinical trials.

Ms Hutton, matron for surgery, was praised for her kindness, compassion, and dedication to her patients and staff.

Ms Shackleton, deputy director for infection prevention and control, was recognised for her contributions during the pandemic.

Mr Facultad, associate chief nurse, was commended for his initiatives to improve patient care and reduce agency spend and vacancy rates.

Neil Macdonald, trust chief executive, said: "On behalf of the trust, I’d like to congratulate Steph, Jael, Ann, May, Anne, Jo, and Jose on being awarded the CNO Silver Award.

"The experience and knowledge these individuals bring to our teams is second to none and they are all highly respected by their colleagues.

"The NHS is nothing without its people and these are all shining examples of the very best of the NHS."

Karen Bonner, chief nurse at the trust, said: "I am immensely proud of my nursing colleagues receiving these awards.

"All seven individuals truly embody what it means to be a nurse and go above and beyond to ensure patients receive outstanding care.

"Their commitment and dedication to the NHS is invaluable and they are always striving to make Buckinghamshire Healthcare NHS Trust a great place to work."