The James Paget University Hospital's most senior nurse has been recognised for her contribution to nursing by the University of East Anglia.

The UEA has appointed Liz Libiszewki as a visiting professor for her contributions to the School of Health Science in her role as Director of Nursing at the hospital in Gorleston.

It is the latest achievement in a career which started more than 30 years ago at Nottingham School of Nursing – and which has taken Liz to her current role at the Paget via hospitals in Kent, Lincolnshire and Yorkshire.

'I am absolutely delighted,' said Liz. 'It really is a recognition of what we are trying to achieve for patients through excellent nursing care – and is great both for the profession and for the Paget.'

Since joining the James Paget University Hospital's executive team in 2013, Liz has championed workforce development with the aim of inspiring nursing staff to maximise their potential and think innovatively - all with the ultimate aim of maximising the quality of patient care.

Liz has overseen a new programme being introduced later this year at the hospital, called the flexible nursing programme.

This will see a group of assistant practitioners currently working at the Paget undergo their nursing training and completing their nursing degree while still remaining as employees of the hospital.

'This is an exciting project as it is about growing our own talent and developing our own people from the local area, here at the Paget,' said Liz.

She hopes that the six people on the programme will share her enthusiasm for a career in nursing, which started for her on January 7, 1980.

'I have seen many changes and technological advances during my career but one thing has remained constant for me: a passion to deliver quality care for patients and provide care for families as we would want to be cared for ourselves,' added Liz.