A local Macmillan nurse has won a prestigious title at the 2013 Macmillan Excellence Awards, which was held at The Palace Hotel in Manchester.

Sandra Campbell, who is a Macmillan Nurse Consultant for Cancer and Palliative care with NHS Forth Valley, was presented with the Partnership Excellence Award during a glittering awards ceremony hosted by Olympic rower, Greg Searle MBE.

The award recognises Macmillan professionals who have introduced a new approach to service delivery which has impacted positively on quality, productivity, outcomes and/or patient/carer experience.

Sandra has led the development of a number of strategic partnerships which has resulted in many successes, including the Macmillan benefits service in Forth Valley and the new One-to-One service which offers follow up support and advice to people who have recently undergone treatment for cancer. Throughout her career Sandra has empowered individuals and communities by involving them in the design, consultation and delivery of services. This has allowed services to be developed that ensure people are respected, treated as individuals and involved in their own care.

The charity presented fifteen awards which recognised excellence in four areas: Service Improvement, Innovation, Partnership and Teamwork. The awards are now in their second year, having been developed to celebrate the outstanding work carried out by Macmillan professionals. There are over 6,000 Macmillan health and social care professionals across the UK, many of whom are specialists in their area of cancer care and leaders in their field.

After receiving a certificate and £100, Sandra Campbell, said:

 I was really touched to hear that I had been nominated for this award but it was a lovely and unexpected surprise. A diagnosis of cancer can be devastating for many people but with the right care we can make sure that patients and their families are supported every step of the way.”

Professor Angela Wallace, Director of Nursing for NHS Forth Valley said:

 We are absolutely delighted that Sandra’s work has been recognised with this award. Her commitment, passion and drive to improve the care and treatment of patients with cancer are an inspiration to colleagues across NHS Forth Valley and the rest of Scotland.”

Sandra is part of a team of local Macmillan experts supporting people affected by cancer every step of the way. The charity is only able to fund roles like this with the support of people who gives their time or help to raise funds.

Cancer is the toughest fight most of us will face. Macmillan wants to be there for the two million people in the UK currently with or beyond cancer, to make sure nobody has to face the journey alone.

If you have questions about cancer, or would like to know how you can support Macmillan, visit www.macmillan.org.uk or call 0808 808 00 00.