A DOCTOR from Redditch has received an award for her outstanding achievements in psychiatry.
Dr Dale Lawrence has been working in psychiatry for more than 30 years and is currently the responsible officer at Cygnet Health Care.
She was awarded the Swan Award at the Cynet Annual Psychiatrists Conference and National Awards in recognition of her outstanding achievements and commitment to high-quality patient care over the course of her career.
Dr Lawrence joined the clinical team at specialist autism service, Cygnet Health Care’s site in Wast Hills, in Kings Norton, in 2008.
It provides support for 21 individuals with autism, learning disabilities and complex needs.
Dr Lawrence said: “Receiving the Swan Award for outstanding achievements in psychiatry and contribution to Cygnet Health Care was a complete surprise. It is extremely humbling to be recognised by my colleagues and Cygnet Health Care in such a manner.
“My journey as a psychiatrist started over 30 years ago and I have been in my current clinical role for over 16 years.
“Despite publications in the Lancet, contributing to psychoeducational material, training and speaking at conferences, the real satisfaction for me over the years is that of making a difference in the lives of people with neurodevelopmental disorders and intellectual disabilities.
“This is why I embarked on this journey and what has kept me motivated over the years.
“In recent years, I have had the privilege of supporting my medical colleagues in more senior roles, in particular that of the responsible officer for Cygnet Health Care.
“This has offered me the opportunity to try to ensure that all our doctors are able to practise in a safe, caring, supportive, compassionate and fair environment so they will thrive and grow.”
