A team of 'healthcare heroes' at Royal Bolton Hospital have been honoured with an award for their compassionate treatment of vulnerable patients.

The award was given to the Enhanced Care and Support Team, which launched last April, for their work with patients, particularly those with dementia, who are dealing with confusion, cognitive decline, falls, and challenging behaviours.

Their projects include therapies as distraction techniques, such as haircuts, massages, arts and crafts and music sessions.

Enhanced Care and Support Team lead Joy Redwood said: “This is a great acknowledgement of all our hard work, our belief in person-centred care, and being compassionate with our patients.

“The team are already making a huge difference to the lives of our patients by getting them out of bed and creating stimulation and distraction.

“It’s the little things that make a difference to somebody’s recovery, how they feel, and it lifts everyone’s mood.”

The team have also introduced sensory boxes to keep patients’ belongings safe and in one place, and are working with discharge teams to ensure patients return home safely.

Assistant Director of Nursing Martina Kingscott said: “I am so delighted that the team have been rewarded with this richly-deserved recognition, which has been made possible thanks to the partnership with Audit and Clinical Effectiveness.”