An ‘inspirational’ nurse who has been helping young people with complex mental health needs for just two years has won a prestigious award after being nominated by one of her patients.

Emma Selby, a senior substance misuse nurse with Waltham Forest Child and Family Consultation Service (CFCS), won a Nursing Times Award for her work in a previous job based in Redbridge.

Ms Selby was handed the Rising Star category at a recent ceremony at the Grosvenor House Hotel after she developed sexual and physical health services for young people, as well as improved links between the police and service users, while working for the Fusion Team – a specialist young person’s substance misuse service for young people. 

Judges described her as "a stand out nurse" who embodies the concept of patient-centred care.

She was also presented with a £1,000 cheque.

Miss Selby said: “I was nominated for the Nursing Times award by one of the young people who use our service.

“She said in the nomination that I inspired her to be the best she can be and that she should never feel labelled by her diagnosis.”

“I was very touched that a patient had taken the time to nominate me.

“What I love about working with young people is every day is different.

“We help them to become the best they can be and as we get to be creative in the way we work. I can inject some of my personality into it.”

The ‘Rising Star’ category recognises a nurse who has been qualified for less than five years, but who has demonstrated exceptional qualities and has the leadership skills to inspire others to follow their example.