University Hospitals Dorset nurse wins national nursing award

Sam Whittle, a Diabetes Specialist Nurse at University Hospitals Dorset NHS Foundation Trust, has won the Innovation Award at the Diabetes Nursing Awards 2025 in recognition of her pioneering work to transform type 2 diabetes care.

Sam was praised for developing the “Refocusise” programme – an innovative eight-week diabetes rehabilitation initiative that combines structured education with tailored exercise sessions.

Created in collaboration with the Bournemouth Heart Club, the programme equips people living with type 2 diabetes with the tools they need to take control of their condition, improving both physical health and mental wellbeing.

Speaking at the ceremony, Sam said: “It is fantastic recognition for my work and winning this award will help raise the profile of our initiative.”

The awards were presented during a ceremony at the Radisson Blu, Bloomsbury in London on Friday, 6 June, hosted by GP and broadcaster Dr Sarah Jarvis MBE. Organised by Orange Juice Communications, the event recognised innovation, dedication and excellence in diabetes nursing.

Emily Mayhew, event organiser said: "Sam’s work is a brilliant example of how thinking differently and working collaboratively can lead to real, lasting change in patient care. The Refocusise programme is a testament to what’s possible with vision and determination."

For more information about the Diabetes Nursing Awards, visit: www.diabetesnursingawards.co.uk

The Diabetes Nursing Awards™ 2025 has been funded by A. Menarini Farmaceutica Internazionale SRL and embecta which have had no input into any arrangements or content.