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Working from home is something many of us now take for granted – but for Charlotte Chapman-Hart, it can literally be life-changing. 

Charlotte, a project manager for the new Hinchingbrooke Hospital Redevelopment Programme in Huntingdon, has risen to the remote working challenge exceptionally during the past five years, since being on end-of-life care.

Her strong commitment to the role, professionalism and determination to spread the message of transformation and inclusivity in the workplace has been recognised by North West Anglia NHS Foundation Trust. 

Team player Charlotte has recently won a coveted award at the annual Outstanding Achievement Awards – picking up the judge’s choice in the Outstanding Individual of the Year category.

Ten years ago, Charlotte was unexpectedly diagnosed with Chiari Malformation and Syringomyelia and works remotely to protect her health as best she can.

Following urgent major brain surgery, Charlotte says her life and that of her family’s has changed beyond measure. She is now an active M4RD (medics for rare disease) ambassador to help others on a similar journey.

She said: “Whilst the challenges have shaped the resilient and enthusiastic individual I am today, they have also nearly cost me my life – more than once – due to lack of communication and co-ordination of care.”

But she has nothing but praise for North West Anglia NHS Foundation Trust: “It never ceases to astonish me just how much the organisation has nourished my life. It has shown belief in me when others didn’t and has had a genuine appetite to overcome any hurdles that may arise when having to do things in a slightly unorthodox way.”

Despite working remotely from her home in Nottinghamshire, Charlotte is very much an integral and ‘present’ member of the HHRD team at the Trust. 

She said: “It illustrates the journey that we have been on together, a collective effort by people who have had a yearning and an appetite to do things differently and to make work accessible for me.

“I didn’t think I would get strong enough to work again but I have clung on to survival and am here to tell the story. The Trust has given purpose to that life I am very lucky to have, and I am grateful for that.”

John Boulter, clinical engineering specialist at the Trust, nominated Charlotte for the award. He said: “Charlotte has been an exceptionally inspiring member of the trust, consistently demonstrating a strong commitment to doing her best. 

“She has played a pivotal role in bringing together key stakeholders, ensuring the medical technology team had the necessary support to engage with the HHRP new hospital program effectively. 

“Through her efforts, she helped bridge any gaps, ensuring that both teams could work together seamlessly on shared goals. Her proactive approach enabled the medical technology team to address any challenges swiftly and navigate the complexities of the new hospital program with confidence. 

“There are some 7,000 people in the organisation, but only one of her.”

He added: “Charlotte has also been a key advocate for raising awareness of rare diseases, actively supporting the Trust's efforts in this area. Her leadership in these initiatives has not only helped foster a greater understanding of rare diseases across the Trust but also showcased her ability to drive meaningful change beyond her immediate responsibilities.

 

Charlotte was presented with her award virtually by North West Anglia NHS Foundation Trust Deputy Chief Executive Officer, Charlotte Williams during a live link at the awards ceremony at Peterborough Cathedral.

The awards celebrate staff and volunteers who deliver incredible patient care and go over and above the call of duty.