Published on: 29 April 2025
Staff from the Phoenix Unit at Sunderland Royal Hospital have been presented the Star Award from Healthwatch Sunderland.
The unit was selected for the award following a range of positive feedback from patients for the exceptional care and professionalism they received during treatment.
The Phoenix Unit is the Trust’s Chemotherapy, Haematology, and Infusion Day Unit, providing a range of chemotherapy services in hospital, at home, and through outreach, tailored to each patient’s preferences and treatment needs.
Healthwatch presented the department with the award following nominations from numerous patients who have been receiving treatment.
The independent organisation works as a champion for those who use health and social care services across the city.
Directorate Manager, Chris Black, was delighted that the department has been recognised for their work.
He said:
“I’m incredibly proud of the team and their dedication. This fantastic feedback shows how much it means to patients and their families to be treated with kindness, patience and professionalism during such a difficult time.
Thank you so much on behalf of the Phoenix Unit.”
Representatives from Healthwatch presented the department with the award.
Anna Gillingham, Project Lead, said:
“It was our great pleasure to present the team on the Phoenix Unit with a Healthwatch Star Award, which recognises individuals and organisations within Sunderland’s health and care sector for the great work they do, as nominated by the people who use them.
Recognising those who work in our health and social care services and strive to make a difference to people’s lives is so important, as it celebrates the fantastic work taking place and inspires others.”
The award was presented after Healthwatch Sunderland reviewed feedback from numerous patients, including the following heartfelt testimonials:
One patient said:
“I've been receiving treatment for cancer since 2021. It takes a long time for nurses to canulate me - often 40 minutes and 3 nurses. But the staff are amazing: always reassuring, friendly, and good-humoured. If I have an issue at home, such as a side effect, they deal with it instantly. There’s always a good atmosphere on the ward and amongst staff.”
Another said:
“Care and attention from staff make everyone feel valued and supported throughout the whole process and treatment. Their careful, full explanations create a feeling of security and trust at a very difficult time. The team deserves recognition for everything they do to apply best practices.”
Another shared:
“This service is excellent for patients. The nurses and staff make you feel comfortable and at ease and are always there to help. This is particularly important because many patients are receiving chemo or cancer prevention treatment, which can be very frightening.”
Another added:
“Everything runs on time. You get your own nurse, all of whom are friendly and dedicated. They explain everything they’re doing, and you get spoilt with tea, biscuits, and even lunch if you want it. The staff work very hard.”
Another shared:
“Very professional and caring. I’ve never had an issue with any of the staff in my 15 months of ongoing treatment.”
For more information on the services provided by the Phoenix Unit, visit South Tyneside and Sunderland NHS Foundation Trust - Phoenix Unit.
