Breast Radiology and Voluntary Services teams at Maidstone and Tunbridge Wells NHS Trust (MTW) have been celebrated at the Healthwatch Kent and Medway Awards where they were both presented with recognition awards.

The first certificate was for the End of Life (SWAN) Volunteer Service in the ‘collaboration’ category for its work with the Anne Robson Trust. The Swan Volunteer Service, which launched at MTW in early 2023, works to ensure no patient has to die alone, and that patients and their families have access to the support they need during the end of life. Volunteers spend time with patients and their families in their final days and hours of life; this can include having conversations or reading with them, or simply holding their hand. The service has provided more than 345 visits to patients so far, and volunteers have given over 600 hours of support.

Emma Topham, who coordinates the service, said: “I’m incredibly proud to see the SWAN Volunteer Service win recognition for its worthwhile work. The Service has been an idea for many years, so it’s important to recognise the hard work from the Voluntary Services and Palliative Care teams, and the Anne Robson Trust, that has made this extra layer of support for patients, their loved ones and also ward staff, possible at last.

“Special thanks also to the Maidstone Hospital League of Friends, who part-funded my role for its first year and allowed this service to grow from an idea to a recognisable service at both hospitals.”

We continue to develop the SWAN service in collaboration with the Anne Robson Trust, a national charity offering support and companionship to people facing the end of their life. The Anne Robson Trust provides specialist training and ongoing support for our SWAN Volunteer Coordinator, helping to build a successful service.

Liz Pryor MBE, CEO & Founder of the Anne Robson Trust, said: “Collaboration is a key part of the work of the Anne Robson Trust, and it’s a pleasure to work with colleagues at MTW. The staff have worked tirelessly to get the service to where it is today, ensuring patients in the last days of life are supported and know they are not alone. We were thrilled to hear that the service had received a Healthwatch Award – well done to all involved.”

The second certificate was awarded in the ‘inclusivity and equal access to services’ category, in recognition of the Breast Radiology team’s gender inequality research. Following patient feedback, the team recognised that cisgender male patients often felt underrepresented by the breast radiology service, which inspired a project to further investigate the issue and make improvements to the service. Their research showed that a gap exists in the breast screening invitation formula for transgender men and non-binary people registered female at birth. The team designed a new breast screening pathway for eligible patients to ensure the service is accessible for all.

Sally Harper, Superintendent Radiographer said: “It’s such an honour to be recipients of such a prestigious award. This is testament to the dedication of Breast Radiology staff in breaking down barriers and ensuring our services are gender inclusive.”

The Healthwatch Recognition Awards celebrate local organisations and individuals who work innovatively and collaboratively to deliver excellent healthcare services across Kent and Medway.

Reflecting on the awards, Sarah Eastwood, Interim Patient Experience Lead, said: “I am really pleased that both the SWAN service and Breast Radiology team have received the recognition they deserve at this year’s Healthwatch Awards. Thank you and well done to both teams for their contribution to improving patient experience and providing outstanding care.”