Cygnet Health Care's Derby Safeguarding Team Receives Prestigious Dignity Award
Cygnet Health Care is celebrating a significant achievement as its safeguarding team in Derby has been honored for excellence at a special awards ceremony that recognizes champions of dignity in care. The Cygnet Derby Safeguarding Champions Group was presented with a Dignity Award during the annual Derby and Derbyshire Dignity Tea event, organized by the Derby and Derbyshire Safeguarding Adults Boards as part of Dignity Action Month.
Event Highlights and Recognition
Held at the Council House in Derby, the event brought together professionals from across health, social care, and community services who go above and beyond to promote dignity, compassion, and respect for individuals using services. Awards were presented by the Mayor of Derby, Ajit Atwal, alongside safeguarding leaders from across the city and county.
The Cygnet Derby Safeguarding Champions Group was specifically recognized for transforming how safeguarding is understood and experienced by both service users and staff. Their efforts have helped ensure that people receiving care feel safe, respected, and empowered in their journey toward recovery.
Leadership and Team Commitment
Mark Varney, the Hospital Manager at Cygnet Hospital Derby—a 50-bed mental health hospital for men and women—expressed immense pride in the team's accomplishment. He stated, "I am incredibly proud of our safeguarding champions for receiving this recognition. This award reflects the passion and commitment of our whole team to ensuring that every person in our care is treated with dignity and respect."
Varney emphasized that safeguarding is foundational to their operations, saying, "Safeguarding underpins everything we do to keep our patients safe, empower them, and support their recovery. It remains central to delivering high-quality mental health care, ensuring that patients are protected from harm and supported to live with dignity, choice, and independence." He added that it is fantastic to see this dedication acknowledged by partners across Derby.
Collaborative Efforts and Gratitude
Carol Colins, Lead Social Worker and Safeguarding Lead at the hospital, highlighted the collaborative nature of their success. She said, "I would like to thank the service users who are the ward Safeguarding Champions for their amazing energy and enthusiasm and all their hard work and thoughtful planning and contributions. Without that amazing co-working we would never have got this certificate of achievement."
Community and Civic Support
Councillor Alison Martin, Cabinet Member for Health and Adult Care, praised the event and its participants. She remarked, "The Annual Derby and Derbyshire Dignity Tea event is a special time for our city to celebrate those who truly champion dignity in care by making a positive difference in the lives of those who receive care. Together with organisations and individuals, we can work together to create a city that is kind, safe, and inclusive for all. I am truly proud of the care services that Derby has and especially those who received awards today."
The Dignity Tea event served as a platform to celebrate individuals and organisations who make a positive difference in the lives of local residents daily by listening, showing kindness, and ensuring people are treated with respect. This recognition underscores the importance of safeguarding and dignity in mental health care, reinforcing Derby's commitment to compassionate and inclusive services.
