A NURSE from North Yorkshire has been crowned “Nurse Leader of the Year” for her work to improve access to care for vulnerable patients.

Karen Jordan, of Spectrum Community Health CIC, won the Nursing Times award for her work at North Yorkshire Horizons, the integrated drug and alcohol recovery service for a patient area stretching 3,500 sq miles.

She developed an outreach nursing model which gave vulnerable patients access to drug and alcohol recovery support at home, in neutral meeting places such as cafés - and even on the street.

“I think I’m still in shock,” she said.

“I couldn’t believe it when my name was called – I’m thrilled to have won this award, and so thankful for the fantastic support I’ve received.”