Published on: 17 November 2025
Two long-serving members of the sexual health team at South Tyneside and Sunderland NHS Foundation Trust have been recognised with one of the highest honours in nursing.
Lindsey Carlson and Catherine Dunn were each presented with a Chief Nursing Officer award during a special ceremony held at the Trust. The national awards celebrate individuals who go above and beyond in delivering exceptional care across the NHS.
(Lindsey Carlson and Catherine Dunn proudly display their Chief Nursing Officer awards)
Lindsey received the award for compassion, while Catherine was recognised for quality of care. Both were nominated by their manager, Carley Gill, for their dedication, kindness and professionalism.
Carley Gill, Manager of the Sexual Health Service at Sunderland, said:
“I nominated Lindsey for the award of compassion as I have never met a person with a bigger heart. She puts everyone before herself and goes out of her way to show kindness and care to our patients. This is noticed by the whole team.
“Catherine’s commitment to care within the department is exemplary. She not only runs her own clinics but supports clinical staff in theirs to ensure the day runs smoothly. She does everything with a smile and brightens even the busiest days.
“Having such dedicated staff is invaluable. Without Lindsey and Catherine, patient throughput would be lower and waiting times longer. I feel privileged to work alongside such wonderful colleagues.”
Both Lindsey and Catherine began their careers with the Trust at just 16 years old and have spent their working lives supporting patients. Before joining sexual health services, they both worked in Gynaecology, where they developed the skills and compassion that continue to shape their approach to care today.
NHS England North East and Yorkshire’s, Nursing, Midwifery and Allied Health Professionals Workforce Lead, Victoria Bagshaw, personally presented the awards and congratulated the pair.
Lindsey said:
“I feel incredibly honoured to receive this award. Working in sexual health has been such a rewarding journey and to be recognised for compassion means the world to me.”
Catherine added:
“It’s a privilege to care for our patients and be part of such a supportive team. Receiving the quality-of-care award is a proud moment I’ll never forget.”
(Lindsey and Catherine surrounded by colleagues and leaders from STSFT during a special presentation ceremony)
Chief Nursing Officer awards are only given to a small number of individuals nationally each year, making this a significant achievement for both Lindsey and Catherine.
Their achievements highlight the incredible dedication within our sexual health services and the vital role nurses play in improving lives every day.
Find out more about the Sunderland Sexual Health Service here.
