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A visit to hospital for many patients will involve blood tests - which for some, can be an extremely anxious time.

But with a wealth of experience which has seen almost 155,000 blood samples taken in the past year, patients are in very safe and supportive hands during an appointment with North West Anglia NHS Foundation Trust's phlebotomy team.

The team is often the first point of contact for many patients at Peterborough City Hospital, Hinchingbrooke Hospital in Huntingdon and Stamford & Rutland Hospital.

Phlebotomist Sophie Kerr said: “A big part of my role is to help people who have fears and anxieties around having their bloods drawn. This is completely normal and we see lots of patients who have the same issues.

“I enjoy my job and putting people at ease. We are here to support patients, taking our time and talking or not talking to them, depending on how they feel.”

Their patient-facing care, behind the scenes workload, and the dedication and professionalism to their roles has seen Phlebotomy crowned the Team of the Year at the 2026 Trust Outstanding Achievement Awards.

Colleagues from the 23 strong cross-site team collected the coveted award from Deputy Chief Executive Officer, Charlotte Williams, at the recent ceremony in Peterborough Cathedral.

The team was nominated for the honour by Chris Bannister, Trust Phlebotomy Operations Manager. He said: “What truly sets the phlebotomy team apart is the care and compassion shown to each and every patient. 

“As one of the first points of contact with the Trust, they provide reassurance to anxious patients and treat everyone with dignity, kindness and respect. Their calm and friendly manner helps to create a positive patient experience, even in busy clinical environments.”

He added: “The team also maintains excellent working relationship with clinical areas and laboratory services, ensuring that patient pathways remain efficient and well-co-ordinated. Their attention to detail and commitment to high standard underpin the safe and effective delivery of care across the Trust.

“Their collective effort and remarkable workload make the team highly deserving of this award.”

 

Teams shortlisted in this category were:

 

-       Peterborough City Hospital's Emergency Department.

-       Woodlands Oncology Unit at Hinchingbrooke Hospital.

 

 

Pic cap: Team of the Year - cross-site Phlebotomists at North West Anglia NHS Foundation Trust's Outstanding Achievement Awards 2026.