A HOSPITAL porter has been officially recognised for his compassionate care of families in bereavement.

John Jackson, aged 57, from the area of Oswaldtwistle, has been crowned the Bereavement Care Champion by his colleagues at East Lancashire Hospitals NHS Trust for the help he provides for patient’s families visiting Royal Blackburn Hospital.

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The former Rhyddings High School pupil is a member of the Trust’s Bereavements Care Steering Group which meets frequently to improve support for families dealing with the loss of a loved one.

Mr Jackson said he was honoured to receive the award.

He said: “Care for our patients and their families’ continues even after death.

“When I’m on duty as a porter, I treat every person as if they were my own mum.

“I love my job and I am very proud to be named Bereavement Care Champion, although I believe what we do is a team effort.”

The night porter was presented with the award by Chaplaincy and Bereavement Care manager Rev Andrew Horsfall and Bereavement Care nurse Erin Bolton at a public meeting at the hospital in front of more than 100 people.

Ms Bolton said John’s efforts and commitment to his work was thoroughly deserved. Erin Bolton said: “John has a reputation for delivering excellent standards of care to support the families of our deceased patients.

“He always makes every effort to share these standards with his portering colleagues and staff across the hospital.

“Bereavement is a time of grief and sorrow, it is also unfortunately a period during which a number of matters must be dealt with.

“All of this can prove bewildering and stressful, so the hospital’s Bereavement Care service is on hand to help and assist during this difficult time.”

The support group reaches out to the trust’s five hospitals Royal Blackburn, Burnley General, Accrington Victoria, Clitheroe Community and Pendle Community.