Meet Andrea - recognised for her quality care in N-Step
We're celebrating Andrea Morris, the winner of this years Quality Care Award.
Andrea has worked in mental health care for over 30 years, first inspired by supporting a family member living with a psychotic illness. That experience shaped her career and continues to influence the empathetic, person centred approach she is known for today.
N-step is NHFT's early intervention for psychosis service. N-step delivers low dose anti-psychotic medication, psychoeducation, medication management, cognitive behavioural therapy, family intervention and relapse prevention. The service supports people aged between 14-65 years who are having their first episode of psychosis.
Her role in N Step is wide ranging and deeply patient focused. Andrea supports individuals experiencing a first episode of psychosis through a combination of clinical work and community based activities, including healthy living walks, expressive arts and music groups, peer support sessions and physical health check clinics. She also carries out home visits, offers family therapy (BFT) and co runs a carers café that provides support and connection for loved ones.
Andrea describes the most rewarding part of her job as seeing clients recover and regain confidence. Many people join N Step during an extremely challenging time in their lives. Seeing them progress, reconnect with their routines and return to a sense of normality is something she describes as "so rewarding".
Her recent award nomination stemmed from her exceptional care for a service user who had been diagnosed with terminal cancer. Andrea provided support throughout her final months and ensured her wishes were fulfilled - including planning her funeral when she had no one else to do so.
"She was a very special lady, and someone I will always think of fondly" Andrea says.
Andrea is also proud of her involvement in N Step's therapeutic groups, which regularly receive positive feedback from clients who say they feel supported, understood and less alone.
Through open communication, honesty and compassion, Andrea helps both clients and families understand psychosis, ease anxieties and navigate treatment confidently. She credits the N Step team as a vital source of support:
"I'm so fortunate to work with such an amazing group of dedicated individuals. Everyone goes above and beyond"
Reflecting on her win, Andrea says the award gives her a deep sense of personal pride and recognition for her passion for helping others.
Her message for anyone beginning a career in healthcare is simple but meaningful:
"It's one of the most rewarding careers you can choose but it's important to look after yourself along the way"
Congratulations Andrea and thank you for providing over 30 years of quality mental health care