A "DEDICATED" PA has been crowned an 'Outstanding Colleague' at local NHS awards.

Kerrie Lowe, PA to Mark Young, Deputy Director of Estates and Facilities, was named Outstanding Colleague at Solent NHS Trust's inaugural Support Colleagues Awards.

She was described as "hard-working, committed and team-spirited" when she received her special award for her service.

Guests heard how Kerrie went far beyond her job description to make every member of the Estates and Facilities team feel supported and included.

From baking cakes for colleagues to organising team get-togethers and Christmas quizzes, Kerrie went out of her way to bring everyone together, which was particularly important since the covid pandemic.

Kerrie, based at Westwood House in Bitterne, Southampton, was nominated for the new award by Estates Project Officer Rochelle Sampson-Clarke.

When she isn’t organising the team at Solent Estates and Facilities, Kerrie keeps herself busy working as a dance teacher and also enjoys baking, sewing and spending time with her husband, daughters and grandson.

She said: “I was surprised to be nominated for this award let alone win it. Estates and Facilities are an incredible team and I love being part of it.”

Kerrie has worked for Solent NHS Trust, and previously Southampton Community Health and Southampton City PCT for 30 years, the last ten of which have been as a PA in the Estates and Facilities team.

Rochelle, who nominated Kerrie, said: “The lack of face-to-face contact has been a challenge for some members of the team but by having Kerrie, who is so supportive and inclusive, to actively bring us together makes working here very pleasant and lifts morale.

“By feeling included and part of the team, I have no doubt that myself and colleagues have been more motivated within our roles as we know that Kerrie is always there to help.

"The support of someone like Kerrie has proven invaluable during my time in the team and it is one that will leave a lasting impact on me. People like Kerrie are the reason why Solent is a great place to work.”