‘Inspirational’ Govan nurse comes top in national vote

Thousands of people chose Sarah Everett as the winner of the Patient Choice category in the RCNi Nurse Awards.

Sarah, a practice sister at Govan Health Centre, was one of five inspirational nurses nominated for the accolade, which was announced at a glittering ceremony in London this week.

Sarah has worked tirelessly to establish Men’s Shed Govan as a health and activity hub for men facing social isolation.

As well as activities such as gardening, darts and cooking, the Shed offers health checks and wellbeing advice in an informal setting.

The project has changed lives, according to the men who nominated Sarah.

Sarah said: ‘I’m so delighted to win such a prestigious award. I didn’t expect it at all.

“It was such an honour to be nominated by a patient. It shocked me how many people voted for me.”

Men’s Shed member John Alexander, who nominated Sarah for the award, said: ‘When I retired two years ago, I didn’t want to feel that there was nowhere to go other than the pub or bookies.

“It would have been easy to ignore what many men in our community desperately needed, or to assume someone else would rise to the challenge. But Sarah did not.”

Sarah secured funding, liaised with council officials to obtain premises and encouraged male patients to get involved. There are now 30 men attending regularly.

“Sarah relentlessly pursued this - we have never known a practice nurse who has been so willing and able to go the extra mile for men like us,” added John.

“She dedicates hours navigating her way round red tape and has an infectious and vibrant enthusiasm, which is inspirational.”