‘Everyone needs an Arshad in their life!’
A hospital chaplain in Bradford received a prestigious award last week for showing excellence in equality and diversity.
Mohammed Arshad, Chaplaincy Team Leader at Bradford Teaching Hospitals, was presented with the Chairman’s Award last week during the annual Bradford Teaching Hospitals Awards night.
Presented by Lord Kamlesh Patel of Bradford, the accolade recognised Arshad’s commitment to his work over the past 16 years.
His colleague, Shaheen Kauser, was the one who nominated him for the award, saying, ‘we all need an Arshad in our life’.
She added: “He [puts] the patients and their families at the forefront, ensuring their beliefs are respected at all times, and the dignity of all involved is observed every step of the way.
“I am so proud to have Arshad lead our team. He promotes inclusion, equality, diversity, harmony and, most of all, a loving environment for us all to work in.”
Arshad was also described by his colleagues as someone they could trust and confide in.
The hospital staff said they ‘would be lost without him’ – as they rely on his expertise when faced with complex situations with patients and families.
Another colleague said that Arshad has experienced a difficult year in regards to his own health.
However, he has not let his own medical problems impact on his work and at no time has he let his responsibilities slide as hospital Imam. His compassion and commitment speaks for itself.
Unfortunately, due to sickness, Arshad could not be there in person to pick up the award in person.
His colleagues, Shaheen Kauser and assistant chief nurse Shelly Burley, accepted the award on his behalf.
Arshad told the Asian Express this week: “I was really taken back by the award, simply because it’s good to know what the Trust thinks of you and the work that you do. I find that the news of the award was part of my healing process.
“I am back to work now but I have been off for four weeks. I feel re-energized to be back. It’s the festive season and it’s a busy time of the year. However, I feel like my batteries have been recharged thanks to this award.”
He continued: “The highlight of my year is the fact that I know that the ward understands the value of having a chaplain present in the hospital environment and recognising the importance of holistic care.”
More than 40 awards were presented to staff of Bradford Teaching Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust on the night, commending those who had gone above and beyond the call of duty, putting their patients first.
