Rising star receptionist wins apprentice award
A young receptionist who goes the extra mile for patients and colleagues at a busy Southampton health centre has won a coveted award.
Darcy Ames has been named Solent NHS Trust’s non-clinical apprentice of the year in recognition of her good work at Bitterne Health Centre, where she has been based since March 2021.
Judges said the 21-year-old stood out as being a devoted and valued member of staff who sought out opportunities to improve processes and enhance the patient environment.
Described as a rising star in Solent’s Estates and Facilities team, Darcy was praised for being approachable, supportive and respectful.
Those who nominated her for the award also said she was honest, helpful and a great team-player, always with a warm welcome for patients and visitors.
And as well as going above and beyond at work, Darcy ensured all coursework completed as part of her business administration level 3 diploma was to a high standard.
Modest Darcy said: “It was a lovely surprise to win this award and to be recognised by so many. A massive thank you goes to my team for all the support they have given me.”
Darcy said interacting with patients was the best part of her role as an apprentice receptionist/cashier.
“I love helping patients, whether that is providing information or even just having a chat,” she said.
“We find quite a lot of people come in who are maybe quite lonely so it is nice to talk to them and have a bit of a laugh to see them smile. The patients really do make my job.”
Darcy began her first apprenticeship in 2021 and achieved her customer service level 2 qualification in September 2022. In March last year, she started a second apprenticeship and should achieve her business administration level 3 diploma next month.
Things did not go to plan with the start of her second apprenticeship and she was tempted to give up – but, after talking to her managers, she was given a new assessor and a mentor, and hasn’t looked back since.
Mark Young, Deputy Director of Estates and Facilities at Solent NHS Trust, said: “Darcy is an inspiration. She is always happy, helpful and goes above and beyond for patients and colleagues.
“Despite her challenging role on the frontline, with sometimes difficult and confrontational situations, she always remains respectful and treats everyone with kindness and compassion.
“Darcy is a superb ambassador for our organisation and we are all delighted to see her win this very much deserved award.”
Nicky White, Apprenticeship Manager, added: “Darcy has worked so hard throughout her apprenticeship. It is lovely to see how much she has grown in confidence; to the point where she creates a supportive environment for fellow apprentices.
“Her positive attitude towards her apprenticeship has inspired others, raising awareness and interest in the apprenticeship programme within Solent NHS Trust.”