National recognition for Dr Sarah Fuller’s impact on dietetic practice
We are thrilled to announce that Dr Sarah Fuller, Clinical Lead Dietitian for Child and Adolescent Mental Health Services (CAMHS) and Adult Eating Disorders at NHFT, has been shortlisted for the prestigious British Dietetic Association (BDA) 'Outstanding Achiever' award.
Sarah is one of just four finalists selected from across the United Kingdom, a remarkable achievement that reflects her exceptional contribution to the profession. The winner will be announced at the national awards ceremony on Wednesday 3 June in Birmingham.
Nominated by her professional dietetic peers, Sarah's shortlisting recognises her ground-breaking research into nasogastric (NG) tube feeding under physical restraint. This is a last resort medical intervention used when a patient refuses or is unable to eat or accept nutrition, and their physical health is at serious or imminent risk. It involves inserting and delivering nutrition through a NG tube while staff physically restrain the patient to prevent harm to the patient or the clinical team.
Her extensive academic work in this area spans both mental health and paediatric wards and has transformed clinical practice, having been directly embedded into both NHS frameworks and international medical guidelines. Her research has helped ensure that when NG feeding under restraint is required, it is delivered in the safest, most effective, and least restrictive way possible.
Sarah said:
"I feel incredibly honoured to be nominated for this award. It was a wonderful surprise, and it means so much to see my research recognised and used to make a real difference for patients who require NG feeding under restraint. Knowing it helps clinicians deliver the safest and most compassionate care is truly rewarding. I'm very much looking forward to the ceremony."
The BDA Awards celebrate the exceptional achievements of dietitians who go above and beyond to advance the profession and deliver outstanding patient care. The 'Outstanding Achiever Award' recognises individuals who have made an impact on the profession throughout their career and has been working in the profession for ten years or more.
You can find out more about the awards on the BDA website.