NSCG Student Wins University Hospital Award
09 June 2026
Newcastle and Stafford Colleges Group (NSCG) T Level Health student Abi Cumberlidge has received the Chief Nurse Diamond Award whilst working as a Healthcare Support Worker at University Hospital of North Midlands (UHNM).
Abi previously worked with UHNM to complete her required T Level placement hours, and having made a fantastic impression through her enthusiasm, ambition and work ethic, secured a paid, part-time position. Now, she’s been awarded for her hard work and unwavering compassion.
In her nomination for the Chief Nurse Diamond Award, Chief Nurse, Anne Marie Riley, wrote, “Abi demonstrated exceptional care and compassion during an early shift on 1st January 2026.
“As a result of her own personal grief of losing her grandparents, Abi, a Band 3 Senior Clinical Support Worker, ensured during the morning comfort rounds that every patient with a mobile phone had a charged device within easy reach. One gentleman was unable to contact his family because he did not have a mobile phone. Abi took the time to locate his next of kin’s telephone number and used the ward’s portable phone so he could speak with them.
“This act of kindness ensured that every patient on the ward that day had the opportunity to speak with their loved ones at the start of the New Year. Going above and beyond in her care, Abi truly deserves recognition. It is heart-warming to see the lengths staff will go to in order to provide person-centred care.”
Fostered within the classroom and developed in workplace settings, Abi’s compassion and determination underpin her budding career as a healthcare professional, and are just two of Abi’s many traits recognised and admired by both the NSCG team, and wider industry professionals.
Lauren Whittingham, placement officer for T Level Health at NSCG told us, “Since starting the course in 2024, Abi has grown tremendously in confidence, and this has been evident throughout her placement experiences at UHNM. Her excellent performance, enthusiasm and proactive approach during placement led to her securing a role on one of the ward areas, where she has continued to flourish and develop into an exceptional healthcare professional.
“Abi is a caring, supportive and highly valued member of the cohort. She is always willing to help her peers and staff in college, and her positive attitude, dedication and professionalism make her a pleasure to work with.
“We are incredibly proud of Abi for receiving this award. It is thoroughly deserved and reflects all of her hard work, commitment and achievements.”
T Levels have been designed in conjunction with employers and industry experts, making them a fantastic way to join academic study with professional workplace practice.