Pride of Guernsey: Our army of 'Angels' provide vital service

The group has applauded the whole concept of the awards, particularly those that recognise the contributions of people who work in the sector.

As well as the Angel of the Year Award, which acknowledges doctors, nurses and medics, the group has welcomed awards for Carer of the Year and Emergency Hero of the Year – categories where exceptional work in health care can be recognised.

'Doctors, nurses, midwives, care workers and ambulance staff could all qualify for any of those awards and I can personally think of many candidates who would be worthy winners,' said MSG chairman Dr Steve Evans.

'Many would say they are just doing their job and may even be a little embarrassed to be nominated for a Pride of Guernsey award, but there is nothing wrong in the people of the Bailiwick expressing their admiration or gratitude for someone who has gone the extra mile.'

He said nurses were a significant part of the health care workforce and played a pivotal role in the direct care of patients, but often their dedication and commitment went unnoticed.

'The Angel of the Year Award would be an ideal way of acknowledging an outstanding contribution by one of our nursing colleagues, who provide us doctors with such high-quality and unstinting support in our work.'

MSG chief executive Debbie Guillou said the awards were a fantastic idea. 'There is a whole army of very capable, dedicated and caring people working in this sector,' she said. 'And it is not just confined to the frontline medical staff. There are medical secretaries and other staff, whether at the MSG, across at the hospital or in primary care, who all strive on a daily basis to improve the patient's experience of health care on the island.'

The Angel of the Year Award acknowledges those who are at the very heart of our community who dedicate their careers to

looking after the wellbeing of all of us, said the MSG.

'These people provide a vital service, often under very difficult and stressful circumstances, but so many of them seem to be able to do so with calming reassurance and a caring smile.

'The collective expertise of Guernsey's health care professionals is among the best in the world and the Pride of Guernsey Awards are now providing a chance to say a huge thank you to all of them by acknowledging one individual among their number who has shown particular compassion or skill to the benefit of their patients.'

• If you know of someone who deserves a special mention complete the form below, or nominate direct online at our sister website wwwprideofguernsey.com. Your nomination could also help them win a prize worth £1,000.