A NURSE who developed an innovative out-of-hours service to help people living with life-threatening illness is in the running for a prestigious award.

Wendy Webb from St Richard’s Hospice in Worcester has been shortlisted for the title of Palliative Care Nurse of the Year at the International Journal of Palliative Nursing Awards.

Mrs Webb, who lives in Bidford, near Evesham, identified the need for an out-of-hours weekend service to support patients at home who frequently need help.

In September last year, Mrs Webb began her work as the weekend St Richard’s nurse specialist and has rapidly developed the service.

Vanessa Gibson, St Richard’s specialist nurse team leader, said: “Wendy is having a huge impact on patients’ quality of life. Not only is she able to provide timely psychological and emotional support but also uses her specialist palliative care knowledge to prescribe appropriately and effectively.

“Wendy’s commitment and willingness to challenge the norm has ensured that out of hours there are no delays in assessing symptoms, prescribing appropriately, locating and administering medication.

“I nominated Wendy as I truly feel that she is challenging the boundaries of the nursing role. Able to assess, prescribe, access urgent medication and administer, Wendy is providing a gold standard service, having a massive, positive impact upon patients, families and colleagues.

“I am convinced that this impact is due not only to Wendy's extended clinical skills but also her drive and commitment. As a result Wendy is instrumental in maintaining patients within their own home.”

Mrs Webb will discover whether or not she has won the award at a special ceremony in London tomorrow.

For more information about St Richard’s Hospice, visit strichards.org.uk.