A GOVAN nurse who set up a lifechanging group to help male patients beat loneliness is in the running for a top UK award.

Practice sister Sarah Everett was nominated for the RCNi Nurse Award by the men she helped.

She is one of five inspirational finalists in the Patient’s Choice category of the national competition, which enables members of the public to thank a nurse, midwife, health visitor, healthcare assistant or assistant practitioner who has provided exceptional care.

Sarah, who works at Govan Health Centre, knew many of her male patients were socially isolated and did not have much access to different activities.

Keen to make a difference, she consulted them about creating a place where men could meet, enjoy each other’s company and pursue practical interests.

The project is now a charity, part of the Men’s Shed movement, empowering men who are retired, unemployed or unfit for work to take control of their health.

Sarah was nominated by John Alexander, who explained: “She was sensitive to our mental and physical health needs and knew there was little motivation to make healthy lifestyle choices.

“She has been the driving force behind this project, and is always so willing to go the extra mile for men like us, dedicating hours to navigating red tape with her infectious enthusiasm.

“She motivates us to keep going even when we are dealt bitter blows.”

The nurse secured funding from QNI Scotland and liaised with council officials to turn a derelict nursery into premises for the group.

The group now grows fruit and vegetables in polytunnels and runs cookery courses

John added: “The Shed has changed lives. People have a reason to get up in the morning and face their challenges.”

Sarah said: “The men worked so hard to transform the building, and its impact has been powerful.

“One told me he had gone four months without seeing someone before he joined the Shed.”

The five Patient’s Choice finalists were chosen from scores of nominations, which include a teenager whose mental health key worker has supported her towards recovery and a university student who nominated the nurse who supported her through her cancer diagnosis and treatment.

RCNi editorial director Graham Scott said: “‘There are thousands of nurses changing lives with the outstanding care they give to people of all ages, from every walk of life.

“These five inspirational nurses might all say that they are just doing their job but the impact they have made on their patients is enormous.

“They have all gone the extra mile to make a difference to people at the most difficult time of their lives.”

You can vote at https://rcni.com/patients-choice-vote until June 14.

The winner will be announced on July 3.