A PRACTICE nurse who has created a haven for men facing social isolation has won a public vote for one of nursing’s top accolades.

Thousands chose Sarah Everett as the winner of the Patient Choice category at the RCNi Nurse Awards on July 3. The award enables members of the public to thank a nurse, midwife, health visitor, healthcare assistant or assistant practitioner who has provided exceptional care.

Everett, a practice sister at Govan Health Centre, NHS Greater Glasgow and Clyde, was one of five nurses shortlisted as finalists.

She has worked to establish Men’s Shed Govan as a health and activity hub for isolated men. As well as activities such as gardening, darts and cooking, the Shed offers health checks and wellbeing advice in an informal setting.

The project has changed lives, according to the men who nominated her.

Everett said: “I’m so delighted to win such a prestigious award. I didn’t expect it at all. It was such an honour to be nominated by a patient. It shocked me how many people voted for me.”

Men’s Shed member John Alexander, who nominated Everett for the award, said: “When I retired two years ago, I didn’t want to feel that there’s nowhere to go other than the pub or bookies. It would have been easy to ignore what many men in our community desperately needed, or to assume someone else would rise to the challenge. But Sarah did not.”

Everett secured funding from the Queen’s Nursing Institute Scotland and encouraged others to join. “It became obvious we needed dedicated premises, so Sarah liaised with council officials, pursuing all available options, before securing a derelict former children’s nursery building,” says Alexander.

The whole place needed painting, repairing and refurbishment, but driven by Everett’s “can-do” attitude and unwavering support, the men completely transformed the premises.

Alexander said: “She motivates everyone involved to keep going, even when we have been dealt bitter blows. Her ability to lead and cajole is what has made the Shed possible.”