Heather Richardson awarded ‘Burdett Hero’

Burdett Trust for Nursing recognises Heather Richardson as a ‘Burdett Hero’ for pioneering the St Christopher’s Palliative Discovery programme

St Christopher’s is thrilled to announce that Heather Richardson, Education, Research and End of Life Policy Lead, was the recipient of one of 14 ‘Burdett Hero’ awards at the Burdett Trust for Nursing 20th Anniversary Event on 29 June on behalf of the team that has led Palliative Discovery, a partnership programme between St Christopher’s and Central and North West London NHS Trust.

The ceremony, held at the Chelsea Physic Garden, chose to highlight a small number of outstanding projects funded by the Burdett Trust over the last 20 years; selecting the Palliative Discovery programme overseen by Heather as an example of exceptional contribution to the nursing industry. Heather’s award was the first of the night to be presented, and was handed over by Dame Christine Beasley, one of the Trustees of the Burdett Trust for Nursing.

Palliative Discovery is designed to provide Clinical Nurse Specialists (CNSs) with the knowledge, skills, resources and support to enhance and flourish in their careers and continue to provide the very best palliative care. Launched earlier this year, the free programme offers a multi-functional, virtual space for CNSs to partake in roundtables, classes and workshops exploring areas of special interest, all whilst developing their leadership skills, expertise and resilience at their own pace.

Speaking of the unexpected award, Heather Richardson said “This prize highlights the best of a truly exciting partnership – between St Christopher’s, Central and North West London NHS Trust and the Burdett Trust for Nursing. We have truly got the best from each other to increase sustainability and resilience within a part of the palliative care workforce, which is vital to meeting the needs of people who are dying in hospital or at home.

“Clinical Nurse Specialists need urgent investment and support to do the challenging work they do. This project is just one effort to recognise and respond to what they bring to the end of life economy.”