Deputy ward manager recognised for life‑changing patient support

A Deputy Ward Manager at St Andrew's Healthcare has been recognised with a prestigious Cavell Star Award for his outstanding dedication to patient care.

Anthony Ndekwe received the award after being nominated by Senior Social Worker Monica Muzaya for helping a patient overcome severe anxiety and rebuild his confidence ahead of leaving the hospital.

The Cavell Star Awards recognise nurses, midwives, nursing associates and healthcare assistants who go above and beyond for the people they support.

Monica’s nomination included heartfelt input from one of Anthony’s former patients, who was determined to see him recognised for the difference he made during their admission.

The patient, who spent two‑and‑a‑half years at St Andrew’s Healthcare, described Anthony as a constant source of support throughout his recovery.

“Anthony was with me every step of the way,” he said. “He’s a very loving nurse and when I was feeling down, he always cheered me up. He always managed to pull me out of my deep anxiety. He always had time for me, and if I got stressed, he would calm me down. If I had any problem, he sorted it.”

Anthony’s support extended far beyond the ward environment. When the patient was offered the opportunity to visit his community placement for the first time, overwhelming anxiety nearly prevented him from going. Once again, Anthony stepped in to help.

“I can’t tell you how much I appreciated him coming with me to visit my placement – and on his day off too,” the patient said. “I’d worked myself into such a state about it. If he hadn’t come, I probably never would have gone. He didn’t have to do that, but he insisted.”

“Once we were there, he even walked around the area with me to show me where everything was and help me feel comfortable. He’s just a superstar, to be honest. I’m now settled in my placement and I’ve even met a girl. I have a lot to thank Anthony for.”

Monica highlighted the profound impact Anthony had on the patient, who was living with severe anxiety and a diagnosis of schizophrenia.

“When he first arrived on the ward, he was extremely unwell,” she said. “Anthony made every effort to help him feel comfortable. His calm nature and strong interpersonal skills played a significant role in the patient’s progress.

“He tirelessly supported this young man, helped him believe in himself again, and gave him purpose and a sense of value. He does this with all his patients. He plays a pivotal role in their recovery, and the belief he instils in these young men is truly inspirational.”

Anthony is well known among patients for his kindness, reliability, and willingness to support their individual interests. When he learned that this patient loved birds, Anthony ensured he could leave the ward each day to feed them, even arranging for the kitchen to save food scraps so the routine could continue.

Monica added: “Anthony is incredibly popular with our patients because he is calm, dependable, and always follows through on what he says. They trust him and know he will go out of his way to help or keep a promise.

“He often puts patients’ needs before his own. On several occasions, I’ve seen him cancel his lunch break if it meant ensuring a patient could go out. He genuinely makes a difference every single day.”

Reflecting on receiving the award, Anthony said: “I feel very honoured. Everything I do is for the patients - making sure they feel safe, supported, and able to take part in activities that matter to them. Seeing their confidence grow is the real reward.

“I’m very humble to have been recognised – but it really is true teamwork being on the ward, so although I’ve been named the winner – I really think this is a prize for everyone I work with.”

The Cavell Star Awards are part of Cavell, a charitable trust that provides grants and professional support to nurses, midwives, nursing associates, and maternity support workers across the UK.