A healthcare support worker, and a emergency medicine consultant are our You Made a Difference award winners for March 2025.
Yvette Clark, healthcare support worker
Affectionately known by her team as the “queen and matriarch of the UTC,” Yvette Clark is more than a valued colleague – she is the heart and soul of the department.
Described by her team as “the wittiest, kindest, and most wickedly wonderful soul you will ever have the pleasure of meeting,” Yvette brings not only clinical excellence but warmth, humour, and fierce patient advocacy to everything she does.
Yvette is the department’s only fully qualified plaster technician, having completed her course at The Royal Stanmore Hospital – a milestone that her colleagues remain incredibly proud of. From plaster casts to skin tear dressings, there’s no one more skilled or trusted.
“She keeps us all in check and teaches us something new every day,” say her colleagues. “No one deserves this award more – we could not be prouder.”
This month’s nomination came from the relative of a young patient who had previously suffered a traumatic hospital experience and was terrified to return.
The difference Yvette made is nothing short of extraordinary.
My son, who has special educational needs, was absolutely petrified – and Yvette went above and beyond to make him feel safe. She took her time, explained everything, and most importantly, gained his trust.
What stands out most is how Yvette adapted her care with empathy and patience, giving the young patient the time and reassurance he needed.
“She didn’t rush him, respected his pace, and made the whole experience so much better for him. I will be forever grateful to Yvette – she made sure he knew not all hospital visits have to be scary.”
The nomination ended with a sentiment many at CUH will echo:
If only there were more people in the world like Yvette.
After four nominations, this recognition is long overdue – and richly deserved.
Congratulations, Yvette, and thank you for making such an unforgettable difference.
Dr Katy Ritson, emergency medicine consultant
This month’s You Made a Difference award goes to Dr Katy Ritson, emergency medicine consultant and newly appointed clinical director for acute services.
Katy has worked at CUH since March 2020, having trained in the East of England, London, and Kent, Surrey & Sussex deaneries. In just a few years, she has made a remarkable impact—not only through her clinical expertise but also through her exceptional leadership, warmth, and dedication to patient-centred care.
Formerly the specialty lead for emergency medicine, Katy has been praised by her colleagues as a leader who “balances both the big picture and patient-level detail” always approaching challenges with positivity and compassion.
Her nomination speaks volumes:
This nomination is for leadership, humility, and unwavering dedication to patient care.
As clinical lead, Katy has been instrumental in championing change. She has worked tirelessly to improve patient safety, strengthen interspeciality communication, and advocate for holistic care. Her leadership has helped streamline care processes and reduce errors, with a clear focus on delivering better outcomes for patients.
What truly sets Katy apart, though, is her humility and personal touch.
“Despite her responsibilities, she remains approachable and kind. Whether it’s making a cup of tea for a patient or offering a supportive word to a colleague, she leads by example with empathy and grace.”
Katy’s quiet, behind-the-scenes acts of care and support don’t go unnoticed—by patients, colleagues, or those she leads. She fosters a culture of collaboration, ensuring that every member of her team feels heard and valued.
While Katy would be the first to recognise the contributions of her team, it is her unwavering presence and drive to improve care for all that make her so deserving of this award.
Congratulations, Katy—and thank you for the extraordinary difference you continue to make at Addenbrooke’s.