Former director honoured with library dedication

A former director at the Trust whose passion for knowledge inspired many people has been honoured with the dedication of a library in her memory.

The library, resource and information centre at Fieldhead in Wakefield has been dedicated to Noreen Young, former director of nursing, clinical governance and safety, who sadly passed away in 2013.

A gold plaque and frame featuring photos and quotes from Noreen’s time at the Trust was revealed by her husband, Ken, at a ceremony attended by her friends, family and Trust colleagues.

The plaque bears a quote from Noreen – ‘I try to inspire people to inspire themselves and for them to go on to inspire others’ – along with the dates she worked for the Trust.

The quote is also used on a sticker placed inside the cover of a number of books donated to the library by Noreen’s family.

Speaking at the event, Trust chief executive Steven Michael said: “This feels like a sad and not so sad occasion in many ways. For those that knew Noreen, as a friend or a colleague, it is sad but it is also a chance to celebrate her life and work.

“One of the things that was really important to Noreen was passing on knowledge, so it is fitting to dedicate the library in her memory.

“We should all keep Noreen’s memory alive in our minds and I’m sure this resource will go a long way to ensure that is the case.”

In 2013, the Trust also dedicated a category at its annual Excellence awards to Noreen’s memory. The ‘compassionate care’ award recognises a team or service that shows a real commitment and dedication to person-centred care, and honours Noreen’s dedication to promoting the role of nursing at the Trust.

Library, resource and information manager Michael Morley also commented: “Noreen was a great supporter of the library and would always call in to recommend books. She was a valued champion of the library and her support will be greatly missed – but her memory will live on through her books.”