Claire Axon-Peters, Associate Director for Nursing and Quality Improvement, has been presented with a national safeguarding award by Catherine Randall, the National Deputy Head of Safeguarding at NHS England and Improvement.
There has only been a handful of recipients for this award and Claire has been honoured for outstanding practice.
Joining a virtual CCG leadership meeting, Catherine presented the award to Claire saying: "Clare is known for standing up for the voiceless and has influenced service improvement at local, regional and national levels.
"Her work has improved safeguarding measures for all service users, particularly those who are vulnerable and with poorer outcomes such as people with learning disabilities and women from Black, Asian and ethnic minority communities using maternity services.
"Her experience, energy, tenacity, boldness, leadership and passion have contributed to positive safeguarding practice changes and I am very proud to be giving her this award."
Among her many achievements, Claire was involved with establishing the Safeguarding Adults National Network (SANN), representing Kent and Medway, and led on domestic homicide reviews (DHRs) and safeguarding adult reviews (SARs). As a Registered Midwife for nearly 30 years specialising in vulnerability and safeguarding, Claire is part of the National Named Safeguarding Midwives Forum and developed a midwifery-specific level 3 safeguarding adults training package.
Claire said: "From early on, I have been committed to being an advocate and voice for those less able to represent themselves. I still picture the person in front of me in whatever I’m doing now, be it service change for those with learning disabilities or autism to reviewing a person’s death. Picturing the person in the room provides the confidence to challenge where needed and the boldness to speak up when you can’t stay silent."
Chief Nurse Paula Wilkins (pictured) said: "We are so proud of Claire and the incredible work she has championed to improve how we support and care for vulnerable adults. Safeguarding is fundamental to the way we provide care. It is the golden thread that runs through all of our services and ensures we protect the most vulnerable in our society."