Lucy Austin is the UK Therapeutic Student Radiographer of the Year – making it five awards in six years for UWE Bristol's student Radiographers. The award, which recognises outstanding achievements during education and training, will be presented to Lucy by representatives from the Society of Radiographersduring a ceremony held at the House of Commons in November. Lucy will also receive £250 and a digital camera from Fujifilm, who sponsor the event, as part of her prize.
Lucy, who recently graduated with first-class honours in Radiotherapy, says, “I am thrilled and honoured to win this award, it means so much to me and my family. I loved studying Radiotherapy at UWE and would not have achieved this without the support and encouragement of the University."
Lucy was nominated by staff in the Faculty of Health and Applied Sciences (HAS), and is currently employed in the Radiotherapy and Oncology department at Poole Hospital. During her time on the course, Lucy showed herself to be a hard-working, dedicated and caring student, helping to prepare first year students for clinical placement by offering practical advice and guidance across a range of issues, including the completion of clinical documentation.
Claire Bennett, Senior Lecturer in Radiotherapy, says, “Lucy decided to help other students because she understands that going out to a radiotherapy department for the first time can be a daunting experience. There is much to learn and adapt to, not least the terminology and factual information about patient positioning and immobilisation for techniques.”
Jan Chianese, Senior Lecturer in Radiotherapy, comments, “Lucy came into radiotherapy as a result of personal family experience and, whilst this has not been an easy journey for her, she has allowed her experience to enrich her practice and, as a result, can offer the ultimate standard of care for her patients.”
For her final year dissertation, Lucy designed and created a pocket guide for first year radiography students, a hugely innovative project which garnered positive feedback from students and clinical departments alike. The interest shown in the endeavour has now developed into a possible deal with an international publishing house.
“Lucy is a credit to the University and the department of Allied Health Professionals,” Jan continues. “She fully deserves this award as it is an excellent reflection of her efforts and innovation.”
