An inspirational Cumbrian nurse who graduated despite tough personal challenges has been recognised for beating the odds.
Joanne Telford, 35, of Kendal, has been named the University of Cumbria’s Alumnus of the Year after she achieved her nursing role in record time, less than five years after graduating, despite leaving school at 16 and facing many personal difficulties.
Now a specialist diabetes nurse at the University Hospitals Morecambe Bay NHS Trust, Joanne said: “During my time as a student at the University of Cumbria, I received a high level of guidance and support which allowed me to grow and develop. I am proud to now represent the university in this way, and I look forward to collaborating in the future, and representing those who may not feel they are a candidate for such an award.”
Joanne grew up in Kendal in a single-parent household, and at 16 lived independently with her sister, while studying at college and working several part-time jobs to make ends meet.
Originally she enrolled in beauty therapy but after receiving support to care for her nan from district nurses, and witnessing their respectful care and support before her death, Joanne became interested in nursing.
She went on to work a variety of jobs from administration to bar tending and was made redundant from a live-in bar job that led to her becoming temporarily homeless.
After spending some time sofa-surfing, she managed to get a room in a hostel that gave her space to contemplate her future.
She applied for a care assistant role in a local residential home, which finally allowed her to pursue her passion for caring and nursing. It also provided her with accommodation and the step up she needed to gain her own tenancy with a local housing association.
In 2009, Joanne secured a job as a clinical support worker at the Westmorland General Hospital, and a year later her grandad was given end-of-life care at the local hospice.
The day before he died, Joanne found out she was pregnant and in 2011 she had her daughter, Ida May. Becoming a single mum gave her more drive to pursue a career in nursing and have a greater impact on patient care.
In 2013, she completed the access to health and social care course at Kendal College which opened the door to studying the BSc in Adult Nursing at the University of Cumbria.
Despite her home being destroyed in the Cumbrian floods of 2015, she graduated with a first-class degree.
Joanne’s first role was as a general practice nurse before she moved into community nursing and a stint in a leadership role in a COVID-19 nurse team.
In her spare time, she was co-chair of the Community Nurse Ambassador Network from inception and has participated in the NHS England and NHS Improvement NextGen Nurse project speaking to year 10 pupils across the UK about why she became a nurse and inspiring others to enter the profession.
Joanne also spends time supporting Anti Racist Cumbria.
