A York nurse has received an honorary doctorate degree in recognition of her dedication to health and social care.

Sarah Fiori was awarded the degree by York St John University to mark her commitment to improving the quality of care for people and communities across North Yorkshire.

An honorary doctorate is the highest award a university can give. It is awarded to someone because of their contributions to society, rather than to a student who has studied and passed exams.

Sarah leads the NHS’s Quality Team in York which oversees the quality of care delivered by local adult social care providers, including care homes and supported living.

She currently holds dual positions as head of quality improvement for York at NHS Humber and North Yorkshire Integrated Care Board (ICB) and principal nurse at North Yorkshire Council.

She was awarded an honorary doctor of science degree from the university at York Minster on Wednesday, November 13.

'It is a rewarding career I would recommend to anyone'

Sarah, who has held nursing posts in both acute and community settings throughout her career, said: “It is a privilege to be able to work with staff and those in receipt of care across a diverse range of settings and to know I play a part in supporting positive experiences for some of the most vulnerable individuals within our communities.

“Working in social care as a nurse or care professional provides the opportunity to really use all our nursing skills. It is a rewarding career I would recommend to anyone.”

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Teresa Fenech, executive director of quality and nursing at NHS Humber and North Yorkshire ICB, said: “The leadership and unwavering ambition which Sarah demonstrates is a source of inspiration to us all.

“Her work ensures people experience high-quality care within safe and compassionate settings.”

Michelle Carrington, Place Nurse Director (York and North Yorkshire) at NHS Humber and North Yorkshire ICB, said: “Sarah is an inspiration to so many people she meets. A strong advocate for the adult social care sector and, by collaborating with York St John University, Sarah is helping to grow the registered nurses of the future.

“Watching the first cohort graduate on the same day as Sarah was a privilege. In Sarah’s speech, she encouraged the graduates to never forget their values and be the change they want to see in the world – words we should all remember.

“It was clear to me how proud Sarah's family were and how much it meant to them. I was honoured to be part of her special day.”