Every year, the West Suffolk NHS Foundation Trust (WSFT) recognises colleagues providing outstanding care at the Hannah Seeley Awards, which honours the memory of the midwife who sadly passed away in 2012.
The awards were presented at the West Suffolk Hospital to members of the maternity services team for the high-quality care they provide, with nominations received from both their peers and those who have recently given birth. Exceptional skills, compassion, kindness and leadership were all qualities highlighted.
This year’s Midwife of the Year, Amy Gilbert, was nominated for going above and beyond for the families in her care. “Exceptional” Amy was recognised for her caring nature, knowledge, kindness and communication skills, enhancing her practice, and being a great leader and teacher.
Specialty registrar Dr Sam Brabazon was named Doctor of the Year. Sam was praised as an “outstanding” doctor, calm, skilled and knowledgeable, who delivers expert care to give all women the best possible birth experience. His kindness and compassion to women and their families, including in difficult situations, was highlighted.
The nominations for Nurse of the Year Angelica Cruzada highlighted her willingness to help out wherever needed, and always with a smile on her face. “Truly brilliant” at her job, Angelica’s dedication, compassion, and expertise were greatly valued by her colleagues.
Kate Frost, the Student Midwife of the Year was described as an exceptional student who demonstrates everything being a midwife defines. With great communication skills, Kate embraces every opportunity to develop her skills and “is going to be such an asset to the team”.
Support Worker/Nursery Nurse of the Year is Laura Davey, who was said to be a positive and lovely presence to have for families and their babies. Laura was praised for being supportive and encouraging to other staff members as well as parents, always treating them as she would like to be treated.
“Kind and caring” Dale Tanner was named Sonographer of the Year. With a clear passion for the job, Dale was said to be a true asset, who explains everything well to patients, and receives constant feedback for his skill and care. He was also praised for being a patient teacher, giving his time to colleagues.
Nominated by people cared for by the Trust’s maternity services, midwife Brave Chizonde won the Patient Award. One patient shared: “The professionalism and care he provides is outstanding. I was nervous to have a male as my midwife but I felt so comfortable with Brave. He remains calm, professional and provides outstanding care while still being able to make jokes with you.”
The award for Outstanding Contribution for Non-Clinical Staff was given to ward clerk Esme Feavearyear, who was said to brighten the room at every shift. Funny, kind and helpful, “absolute gem” Esme was praised for her knowledge and the support she gives to the team.
Director of midwifery at the Trust Karen Newbury said: “Each year, we are honoured to continue Hannah’s memory through these awards. Congratulations to each of our award winners. Your kindness, dedication, and exceptional efforts truly reflect the values we hold at the heart of our service. It is especially meaningful that your peers and the people you care for have recognised your contribution. We are incredibly proud to celebrate your achievements.
“I would also like to thank the My WiSH Charity, who so generously paid for the catering and the awards.”
Trust PA Kim Dines, who organises the awards, said: “We had an extremely high number of nominations for the expanded Hannah Seeley Perinatal Awards 2025, not just from staff, but also from patients, with over 100 nominations received. This demonstrates just how valued our staff are and it is only right that we recognise everyone’s contributions to patient care through these annual awards.”