We say a sad goodbye to Sara Turle, one of Patient Partners, who is retiring this week. Sara was well-known (and well-loved!) by many at our Trust; staff and patients alike.

Following a life-changing cancer diagnosis in 2010, Sara received treatment at our Trust and her experience under our care inspired her to take up a volunteering role as a patient partner in 2014.

Sara said: “I had a lot of love for BHRUT because of my cancer care, I was so happy to be able to celebrate and applaud all the incredible successes of our Trust, but I was also able to question and challenge the areas where we needed to improve.

“I’ve been able to not only promote the Trust but also patient partnership.”

Our patient partners help us identify what matters most to our patients in their healthcare experience, and help us challenge ourselves to make improvements to the care we provide. They also ensure patients’ voices are involved in all of our divisions.

Sara added: “Patients should be encouraged to engage in conversations with their healthcare practitioners, and that’s something I have very much championed during my time here.

“We often talk about patient experience, but how can you know what true value is to a patient if you don’t involve them? And that is what we have managed to do during my time here, such as me being involved in our Patient Safety Summits to be part of the discussion and learning.”

Sara also helped produce several award-winning patient information films with our Medical Photography team which she credits as another positive example of successful partnership working. Earlier this year, Sara also kindly donated two light boxes to improve the waiting areas for our cancer patients.

Over her time here, Sara undoubtedly became a respected and loved personage in the Trust and leaves a legacy behind.

A socially distanced leaving do was held for Sara, with many staff, including our outgoing Chair Mike Bell, stopping by to pass on their best wishes. Those who couldn’t attend in person joined virtually to say their goodbyes.

Sara said: “Thank you to everyone for the most precious of send-offs, it’s been an incredible journey.”

Sara is looking forward to moving to the seaside with her husband and enjoying her newfound free time.

We thank Sara for all of her contributions to our Trust and wish her all the best for the future.