The Dermatology Team at University Hospitals of Morecambe Bay NHS Foundation Trust (UHMBT) was a finalist in the British Dermatology Nursing Group (BDNG) Awards 2026 in the Team of the Year category.
This fantastic national recognition of the team’s dedication and commitment to patient care was made possible thanks to Danielle Boston, a recently appointed member of staff, who nominated the team and shared her personal experience of joining the service.
In her nomination, Danielle highlighted the warm welcome she received, the supportive culture within the team and the way colleagues work together to consistently deliver high standards of care and excellent patient outcomes.
The team works across the Royal Lancaster Infirmary (RLI) and Furness General Hospital (FGH) in Barrow and the unit is led by Faye Vereker, Unit Manager for Dermatology at both sites, alongside Dr Robert Burd, Clinical Lead.
Danielle said: “The Dermatology Team truly represents what an outstanding healthcare team should be.
“The service brings together dermatology consultants, specialty doctors, specialist nurses, nurse practitioners, pharmacists, histopathologists, healthcare assistants and administrative colleagues. Each professional contributes unique expertise, yet everyone works seamlessly toward a common goal: providing the best possible care for every patient.
“Communication is at the heart of the team’s success. Regular MDT (multi-disciplinary team) meetings allow complex cases to be discussed collaboratively, ensuring that care plans benefit from multiple perspectives. These meetings foster an inclusive culture where everyone’s input is valued, regardless of role or seniority. Outside formal MDTs, the team maintains strong day-to-day communication, with consultants, nurses, pharmacists and admin staff working closely together to ensure patients move smoothly through their care pathways.
“The dermatology nurses play a central role in patient support, offering education, monitoring treatment response and providing accessible advice. This continuity helps patients feel confident and empowered in managing their conditions.”
Danielle said communication with patients is consistently clear, empathetic and thorough. Care plans are explained in accessible language and patients are actively involved in decision-making. Written information and follow-up options ensure patients feel supported beyond clinic appointments. Feedback frequently highlights how approachable the team is and how reassured patients feel knowing they have consistent points of contact.
Danielle added: “From my first day, I was made to feel genuinely welcome and immediately included as part of the team. Colleagues took time to offer support, share knowledge and encourage questions, creating an environment where learning is valued and everyone feels respected. This sense of belonging is clearly reflected across the department and contributes directly to staff morale and better patient care.”
Faye said: “This amazing recognition has come at a particularly meaningful time for the service.
“Over the last few months, our team has been under significant pressure due to staff sickness and a continuing rise in dermatology referrals. This has understandably impacted morale, with colleagues feeling increasingly tired. To receive this national recognition has been a real boost and has given everyone a renewed sense of achievement and pride in what they do.”
The BDNG Team of the Year Award celebrates nursing teams that demonstrate excellence in dermatology care, strong teamwork and a supportive working environment. The UHMBT Dermatology Team previously won the award in 2017.
Faye added: “I am incredibly grateful and very proud of Danielle for taking the time to submit the nomination. Although she has not yet worked with the team at FGH personally, they are a huge and valued part of our service and this recognition reflects the hard work of colleagues across both sites.”
The BDNG Awards ceremony took place in Birmingham on 15 May 2026.
Read more about the awards on the BDNG website.