The Trust has been recognised for the way it supports its newly qualified nurses and midwives in their first year caring for patients.
North Tees and Hartlepool NHS Foundation Trust has achieved the NHS England National Preceptorship for Nursing Interim Quality Award.
This is as a result of the Trust’s preceptorship programme, which provides support to nurses in developing confidence and autonomy.
The award is recognition for compliance with the new national preceptorship framework.
All newly registered nurses, midwives and nursing associates have preceptorship in their first year after qualifying, according to Nursing and Midwifery Council standards.
Bev Bunker, preceptorship facilitator, said: “The National Preceptorship Project was established more than two years ago to develop and deliver a collectively agreed set of national standards and a framework for good practice, aimed at implementing it, along with an accreditation framework
“As a trust we have been very fortunate to have a robust programme which has always been supported by managers.
“In line with the framework, we have made many improvements including the introduction of protected time for those involved.
“We have also created the role of champions to support those doing it, have reviewed the programme and introduced bespoke sessions throughout the year.”
These have included preceptorship master-classes and refresher workshops.
The team have also continued a programme with midwives, allied healthcare professionals and international nurses.
Jean Angus, head of nurse education and placements, said: “This award signifies good practice and is a powerful way to demonstrate leadership in the organisation.
“The team are already working hard to make Gold Award which is the next stage of the process.
“I am delighted for everyone involved and would like to thank every staff member who has contributed towards it.”