University of Bolton nursing student nominated in Bradford ‘You’re a Star’ Awards 2024

A second-year University of Bolton nursing student has been nominated for a prestigious award with Bradford District Care NHS Foundation Trust.

Tricia Farrell is studying for a BSc (Hons) Adult Nursing degree at the University’s satellite centre at Bradford College and has been nominated in the Trust’s ‘You’re a Star 2024’ awards.

She is on the shortlist for the category ‘Service User, Carer and Volunteer Contributions Award’, presented to an individual who “deserves to be recognised for their commitment, contribution and making a difference through giving their unpaid time and their passion to support others”.

Tricia, aged 51, who is married and has a 13-year-old daughter, volunteered in a baby clinic for three hours each Thursday. She also volunteers for the Better Lives Charity, is part of the Trust’s Involvement and Participation Strategic Group representing the children's service, and is involved with mum and baby groups.

Tricia, who lives in Bradford, is a former Senior Project Manager for a creative design agency and decided to change careers at the age of 50.

She said: “With the support of family and friends, I worked my way through an access course in Health and Social Care with Shipley College which is where I saw the volunteering role with the BDCFT.

“Everything so far has fallen into place like it was meant to be. Now I am on my way to becoming a qualified RGN and fulfilling my dreams in nursing. I am delighted to have been nominated for this award.”

Tricia, who is due to graduate in 2026, said she had enjoyed each placement she has experienced.

“I have another six placements to attend in my final two years. There are so many areas to choose from, which is why I chose to study adult nursing over children's, to provide me with a wider choice of options for my career path,” she added.

Danielle Ellis, Senior Lecturer in Adult Nursing in the Faculty of Health and Wellbeing at the University of Bolton, said: “We are delighted that Tricia has been shortlisted for this award, it is well deserved.”

The ‘You’re a Star Awards 2024’ ceremony will take place on 3 October.