I believe Jo Smith embodies what it is to be a compassionate leader. Jo understands the need to support the potential in others and has been brave and courageous enough to support other leaders within the organisation to be the best they can be.

Since I have known Jo, she has role modelled the behaviour expected of an ADN. She has been working under immense pressure and has remained considerate of others, supporting them with what they need. Jo has been a shining light to our maternity service this year. She has stepped up to some really difficult challenges, some of which had not been tackled within maternity before, but she was the person who was willing to ask the hard questions and give the support needed by creating brave spaces for everyone to feel heard.

Thank you, Jo, for your efforts in the maternity service and within your own division; you are every bit a DAISY leader. Over the past 12 months, our maternity unit at NGH, like many others across England, has experienced extreme challenges. Despite having a large division of her own to look after, Jo was able to bring the much-needed skills and qualities to also support the midwifery leadership team.

This support came in all forms. Jo was calm and patient while tackling many issues within maternity with good grace. Jo has built resilience in the team, and through her leadership, we are now a stronger team and a better maternity unit. We will be eternally grateful to Jo.