Rochdale nursing associate shortlisted for prestigious award after saving a child's life

A Rochdale nursing associate has been shortlisted for a prestigious award after saving a child’s life.

Eleanor Mears was studying on her apprenticeship course at Salford University when a chance encounter during lockdown led to her putting her skills into practice.

As Eleanor and her partner were changing into their walking boots in a Ramsbottom car park before walking their dog, they heard a ‘huge bang’ and screaming. The training Eleanor had received kicked in immediately, and she sprang into action.

Eleanor explained: “I realised I needed to go and offer my skills to help, so I threw everything into the car and went running to see what had happened.

“As I got out onto the main road, I could see a seven-year-old boy had been run over. He was unresponsive and not breathing. My training and everything I had learnt at university came flooding back, and I checked to see if the airway was clear and started rescue breaths and compressions.

“After what felt like hours, an air ambulance arrived as well as the paramedics; the doctor instructed me to carry on with my compressions, while he administered oxygen and gave out orders to others.”

Despite being exhausted and emotional from providing CPR, Eleanor stayed on hand to help comfort the casualty’s family once the paramedic team took over.

In recognition for Eleanor’s heroic efforts, she was awarded ‘Apprentice of the Year’ by Salford University and has now been shortlisted for ‘Nursing Associate Trainee of the Year’ at the prestigious Student Nursing Times Awards.

This award aims to recognise an outstanding final-year nursing associate trainee and to celebrate their ability to deliver safe, quality hands-on care and support for the registered nursing workforce.

Upon hearing the good news, Eleanor said: “I am speechless. I never expected to be nominated, never mind being shortlisted. It’s a real honour to get this far.”

Professor Margaret Rowe, Dean of the School of Health and Society, said: “It is fantastic to hear that Eleanor has been shortlisted for this award.

“Her quick thinking and actions helped save a child’s life and she should be incredibly proud of herself.

“We look forward to hearing how Eleanor gets on in London and wish her the best of luck as she truly deserves to be recognised for her heroic efforts.”

The finals take place on 4 November at Grosvenor House Hotel.