NGH Matron wins DAISY Award for her compassion, empathy, and leadership

A Matron in emergency care at Northampton General Hospital has won a DAISY Leader Award for the way she supported her team and made patients feel reassured.

Laura Allen was nominated for the prestigious award by a colleague and part of her nomination reads: “Since joining our team as Matron, Laura has been an exceptional and inspiring leader. She has brought stability, compassion, and a deep sense of integrity to her role, consistently demonstrating what it means to lead with empathy and professionalism.

“Her presence has had a transformative impact on team culture, morale, and the everyday experience of staff and families alike. “She models empathy in every interaction. Whether supporting a colleague through a difficult day or simply checking in with staff across the service, she creates a space where people feel listened to and genuinely cared for.

“Her natural warmth and thoughtful manner mean that team members at all levels feel safe to speak openly, knowing they will be met with kindness, fairness, and understanding. “She leads by example, never asking of others what she is not willing to do herself. Her positive attitude, even in challenging circumstances, instils confidence and calm among those she supports. “Families often comment on how supported and reassured they feel in her presence, even when navigating difficult conversations or circumstances. “In every way, Laura is a Matron who leads not just with authority, but with heart. She is the foundation of a stronger, kinder, service and we are incredibly fortunate to have her.”

Group Associate Chief Nurse for Urgent and Emergency Care, Richard Clarkson, who presented the award to Laura, said: “I was delighted to be able to present Laura with a well-deserved DAISY Leader Award.

“These awards are for exceptional nursing or midwifery leaders who create an environment where compassionate care is highly valued and thrives.

“They recognise leaders who look after their teams, support high standards, and who inspire and lead with competence and skill.

“Laura clearly does all of this and we are delighted to see her receive this internationally respected award for her contribution to nursing services.”

Nurse Leader Honorees and their stories of compassionate leadership are also registered with The DAISY Foundation and shared on the DAISY website

To nominate a nurse or midwife for a DAISY Award go to DAISY awards