The title is not an award for past service but indicates a commitment to high standards of patient care, learning and leadership. Nurses who hold the title benefit from developmental workshops, bursaries, networking opportunities, and a shared professional identity.

Sarah commented: “I am passionate about the specialism of Occupational Health and the impact we can have on people within the Loughborough University community and the wider population of families.

“Our role has changed dramatically over recent years and the impact of COVID-19 on health and wellbeing continues to prove challenging along with the backlog of waiting times for people to access support within healthcare. We are now supporting and empowering people on how to optimise their health before they can access primary health care, after accessing primary healthcare and with their journey to stay within the workplace for as long as they are able.

“Investing in the health and wellbeing of our employees is one of the most challenging, rewarding but beneficial roles we can provide to our staff here at Loughborough University.”

The title of Queen’s Nurse is open to registered nurses with more than five years’ experience working in the community. Managers and patients provide feedback about applicants, which is assessed along with their application.

Dr Crystal Oldman CBE, Chief Executive of the QNI said: “On behalf of the QNI I would like to congratulate Sarah and welcome her as a Queen’s Nurse. Queen’s Nurses serve as leaders and role models in community nursing, delivering high quality health care across the country. The application and assessment process to become a Queen’s Nurse is rigorous and requires clear commitment to improving care for patients, their families and carers. We look forward to working with Sarah and all other new Queen’s Nurses who have received the title this year.”