Health Education England's campaign ambassador wins prestigious national award

Lily Aston, one of the faces of Health Education England’s nursing and allied professional recruitment campaign aimed at encouraging more students to study for degrees in allied health professions has been named ‘Student Radiographer of the Year’.

The Society and College of Radiographers award is in recognition of Lily’s commitment to studies and her dedication to the profession which is illustrated by her role as an ambassador for HEE's career campaign. Lily received the award with support from her colleagues and tutors who have recognised her as an ‘outstanding student’.

 Lily graduated from the University of Birmingham before starting her career working with cancer patients at Royal Stoke University Hospital, a position she secured before completing her training. She had considered studying Psychology when she came across the therapeutic radiography course, a career which stood out because of its patient focused approach and care.

 Lily said:

I’m still really shocked I have been honoured with this prestigious award, I’m so grateful for the recognition of my work from both my University and fellow colleagues. I’d like to thank them for their continued support as I develop in the role that I love”.

“The thing I like most about the role is the relationship that you build with your patients. In therapeutic radiography treatments range from three to seven weeks and during that time you can develop a strong bond with your patients, which is important to me. It’s amazing to see the change in attitude of the patient when they come in and when they leave. Having a positive and lasting impact on people is so rewarding - you really do miss them when they go!”.

Lily had considered studying Psychology when she came across the therapeutic radiography course, a career which stood out because of its patient focused approach and care.

Professor Lisa Bayliss-Pratt, Chief Nurse, Health Education England said;

Lily is a shining example of the wealth of talent we have working in the NHS.

I’d like to congratulate her wholeheartedly for winning this award. It’s a fantastic achievement and very well-deserved.

Our Ambassadors play an important role in encouraging people to consider a career in the NHS. Lily’s passion for patient care and ability to talk enthusiastically about her role will inspire even more talented young people to follow in her footsteps”.