Anne is a Fertility Counsellor at Ninewells Hospital in Dundee. 

During her almost 40-year career in the NHS, Anne has worked across many professional areas, in roles such as Staff Nurse, Charge Nurse and District Nursing Sister. Almost 25 years ago, Anne had a career change and completed her studies in Counselling and Health. For the last 14 years, she has worked as a Fertility Counsellor. 

She was nominated for the Elaine Thorp Award for Bereavement Care by bereaved parent Lorna, who was supported by Anne through pregnancy losses and ICV cycles. 

In her nomination, Lorna said: “When I speak to Anne, I feel she hears me, I know I am safe and supported. If I am unsure about an issue, she investigates and makes sure I understand what is happening, why and when.” 

Anne’s ‘relaxed manner’ is something Lorna appreciated and acknowledged in her nomination. Conversations between the two always felt ‘relaxed and open’ with Lorna feeling Anne had ‘all the time in the world’ for her.  

Lorna added: “Anne has always allowed me to express how I've felt throughout all the processes. Her knowledge and understanding have made things much easier than they could have been. Anne has cared for me, and in turn my husband, during all our ups and downs. She has celebrated our wins and supported our losses. I feel her compassion and warmth in all of her communication and in our interactions. I will never forget how she has helped me through one of the most difficult parts of my life.  

“I think Anne is very deserving of this award and I'm pretty sure she will be an unsung hero in her role.” 

Anne was the former Chair of the British Infertility and Counselling Association and is currently on the Scottish Government advisory group for miscarriage. However, Anne explains it’s the personal stories which she’s learnt from over the years, some of which she will never forget as they have touched her ‘so deeply’. 

Describing her ‘rewarding and also challenging’ role, Anne said: “Fertility treatments can be unsuccessful and sadly losses often occur. On many occasions, I've listened to individuals at a time when they share their most painful personal experiences and losses. Being there at a time when they feel heart broken and then continuing to be there to support them until with time, they hopefully find ways to cope and to continue with their lives, shows their incredible inner strength. It has often felt quite humbling to be a part of that person's journey.” 

On being nominated and shortlisted for the award, she said: “I feel very surprised and very honoured to be nominated and shortlisted for this award. It personally means a lot knowing that someone feels grateful and appreciative of the support which I've offered them. It's very kind and thoughtful of them, especially when they've been experiencing something very emotional and difficult. To be recognised by the Sands panel is also much appreciated, as the organisation is very well-respected.”