University Hospitals Birmingham NHS Foundation Trust (UHB) won the Nursing Times' Care of Older People Award at a star-studded ceremony at Park Lane's Hilton Hotel in London.  

The award recognised the amazing achievement of nursing staff and volunteers who care for frail and elderly patients at the Queen Elizabeth Hospital Birmingham (QEHB). In particular, the work on Ward 518, which involves getting patients together for afternoon tea and activities such as playing golf on the Wii, was hailed as an exceptional commitment to ensuring the health and well-being of older people.

In an interview with ITV's Daybreak, Margaret Harries, Lead Nurse for Older Adults, explained that the activities had not only boosted patient morale but had also brought significant health benefits.

"The team is shocked and delighted to have won the award," she said. "Activities are particularly important for older people and those with dementia because it encourages them to be sociable, more mobile and to eat and drink more. Being in hospital can be disorientating so whether it be a game of cards, a jigsaw or even a chat over a piece of cake and cup of tea, it all helps improve the experience our patients have with us and ultimately helps them get better quicker.

"We are lucky enough to have an excellent activities co-ordinator and a great team of nursing staff who are very dedicated to caring for older people and this a wonderful, excellent example of how good care really can be in the NHS."