A ‘REMARKABLE’ chaplain from Rugby who won a national award for her work with seriously ill children has joined the call for nominations for this year’s awards.
Nell Cockell, who was named as a winner in the prestigious WellChild Awards last year, is calling on people in the region to put forward their nominations for the national children’s charity’s 2024 awards.
Nell was selected from hundreds of nominations from across the UK to win the category of ‘Outstanding Professional’
She attended a star-studded awards event at the Hurlingham Club in London, where she had the chance to chat with celebrity guests and WellChild supporters as well as Prince Harry, the charity’s patron.
Nell said: “Being given the WellChild Award was hugely significant to me. It was astonishing to be nominated, to be chosen, and to be appreciated and thanked by so many people on the awards night – it’s something I can hold on to in the tough times!
“It was a massive boost, and it’s given me the confidence to advocate for families more and promote the work I do more, both within my area and beyond.
“Please consider nominating anyone you know who deserves recognition – it will mean so much to them.”
Nell works across Warwickshire to support children, young people and their families who have been given a life limiting diagnosis by spending quality time with them, and talking with them about their hopes and fears.
She has also provided emotional support to help her colleagues in palliative and complex care for children through difficult times.
She was nominated for the award by her colleague Dr Cheryl Adams, who said: “Nell’s work is such an important part of the care given to the children, young people and families we look after – and yet is often unnoticed due to its nature.
“Winning this WellChild award will highlight how important it is that this support is available to those who need it.
“I also hope it will inspire other chaplaincies, teams, and trusts to prioritise timely provision of pastoral support and show what is possible.”
The annual event celebrates the inspirational qualities of the UK’s seriously ill children and young people, and the dedication of those who go the extra mile to make a difference to their lives.
WellChild Chief Executive, Matt James said: “The number of children and young people in the UK living with long-term, complex medical needs is growing. The WellChild Awards 2024 is a unique opportunity to shine a light on the immense challenges they face and to celebrate their remarkable resilience and spirit.
“It also provides an opportunity to recognise the selfless dedication of those around them, from siblings and parent carers to the professionals who have gone above and beyond to give them the very best chance to thrive.”
Visit www.wellchild.org.uk/awards to nominate someone for a WellChild Award. The closing date for entries is Friday March 8.
