Four St Ann's Hospice staff members earn master's degrees

The staff members, Amanda Connors, Suzanne Vale, Joanne Laidlaw, and Nicole Manley, completed the Leadership and Management - Clinical Leadership in Action course at the University of Salford.

The course was co-designed and co-delivered by St Ann's Hospice  in Little Hulton and the university.

The hospice supported the students with tuition fees and study time.

The course is described by Salford University as a 'practice-related course' that helps students develop the knowledge, skills, and qualities to be 'effective healthcare leaders.'

Ms Manley, deputy head of clinical services, said: "I want to be able to nurture, support, and encourage other leaders and team members within the organisation to make sure we continue to deliver innovative, safe, inclusive care.

"Because when we are fulfilling our potential, we deliver outstanding care to our patients."

Ms Laidlaw, hospice @ home sister, said the programme and dissertation have helped her become more aware of herself 'as a leader'.

She said: "I am utilising my acquired skills already within my clinical role and would encourage other colleagues to seek opportunities within the organisation to enable them to lead, learn and develop."

Ms Connors, being you centre team leader, said they received 'amazing support' from St Ann's Hospice during their three years of study.

She said: "The commitment of the hospice and the university has been instrumental in our success.

"We have all grown from strength to strength and are proud to be where we are today."

Rachel McMillan, Suzanne Vale, Amanda Connors, Nicole Manley, Joanne Laidlaw and Gill Turnpenney outside St Ann's Hospice, Heald Green (Image: Supplied)

Ms Vale, charge nurse, said the course has 'really helped with her confidence as a leader.'

She said: "The three years, even though they were tough at times, taught me a lot about myself as a person.

"St Ann’s has been a great help, but it was a lot of work trying to balance my work life, family life, and my studies."

Director of people, culture and support services at St Ann’s Hospice, Gill Turnpenney was 'beyond delighted' to hear all four completed their master's studies.

She said: "One of our four core values here at St Ann’s is to lead and learn.

"These four leaders, who were already a part of the very core of our organisation have embodied that value entirely."

Chief executive, Rachel McMillan was 'thrilled' to meet the four master's students following their results.

She said: "Their newly learned skills will no doubt have an incredible impact here in the hospice to ensure we can provide outstanding, person-centred care to our patients.

"I am thrilled that St Ann’s was able to help and support them along their journey."