A Newcastle Hospitals matron retired today after an illustrious NHS career spanning four decades.
Ruth Saunders began her career when she joined the Freeman Hospital’s School of Nursing in the 1980s. She has worked in Newcastle ever since, specialising in orthopaedics almost from the start working her way up from a student nurse, to an F grade, ward sister then Matron.
Ruth said she never imagined she would be a Matron but when the position became available she decided to apply as she was so passionate about the specialist field of orthopaedic nursing and wanted to make a difference.
“I’ve had an amazing 40 years as a nurse” said Ruth. “When I started all those years ago I never thought I’d work with so many amazing people, of all levels, developing so many services, and employing so many staff.
Career highlights
“I’ve loved my Matron post but if you asked me what the highlight of my career was then I would have to say that it was when I was a ward sister, and when I was on Ward 20 at the Freeman with a fantastic team of nurses.
“When had so much fun, we enjoyed what we did and it wasn’t unusually to have a few ‘let your hair down’ events in the day room led by some really fun-loving healthcare assistants who aren’t here now but we’ll never forget them.”
As well as her clinical work Ruth became the lead Matron for the recruitment of healthcare support workers in 2016 which she enjoyed immensely.
“I’ve had some fantastic experiences over the years and worked in partnership with so many staff. My goal was always to develop staff and push for succession planning. I can see people here today that I have influenced and I’m so pleased and proud to see how well they’ve done.”
Importance of teamwork
Ruth helped to introduce a nurse practitioner team, has seen successful expansion of the Fracture Clinic and worked in collaboration with colleagues on the integration of the Trust’s spinal service.
She said that these achievements would not have been possible without teamwork which is key adding “Throughout my career there has been no other place I have wanted to work. It’s the people who make it work. I will miss you all.”
Paul Sanderson, consultant orthopaedic surgeon described Ruth as thoroughly dependable – if something needed to be done she would the person to get it done, with very little fuss.
“The staff knew they could go to her – she was their mentor but also their friend” explained Paul. “She is going to be a huge miss and I just want to wish her a really happy retirement taking away fond memories.”
Executive Director of Nursing Ian Joy said “Ruth leaves a lasting legacy as she retires from the nursing profession following a fantastic 40 years at Newcastle Hospitals.
“Her love for the specialty of orthopaedics is clear for all to see, passionately advocating for high quality care and professional practice. The impact she has had over her career is outstanding and we wish her a very long and happy retirement.
“Thank you Ruth for all that you have done for our patients, our staff and our profession.”
