Our Lead Nurse for Sudden and Unexpected Deaths in Children (SUDC), Joanne Birch has been named the first-ever recipient of the SUDC UK Professional Award in Memory of Alexander and Isabelle Bowes.
The award, launched at the annual Association of Child Death Review Professionals (ACDRP) Conference last week, recognises excellence and expresses heartfelt thanks to professionals who provide exceptional support to families registered with SUDC UK. Joanne was nominated by Emily Cooper, a parent she has supported since 2021 following the sudden death of Emily’s son Alexander, and later her daughter Isabelle.
Emily, who championed the creation of this award, proudly presented it to Joanne, describing her as “her remarkable key worker.” The award honours professionals across agencies who go above and beyond in supporting families affected by sudden unexplained death in childhood.
On receiving her award Joanne commented:
“I am absolutely delighted to have won this professional award. It’s truly unimaginable that Emily and her family have experienced such loss and pain.
Emily has inspired and championed this new award, and I am extremely grateful that she nominated me to receive the very first one. I am especially proud as the award nomination was chosen by a parent, and is in memory of her beautiful children, as it will be for years to come – what a legacy.”
This award is a testament to Joanne’s compassion, dedication, and the incredible difference she makes to families during the most unimaginable times.
Future nominations can be made by SUDC UK–registered families at any time and are reviewed by the SUDC UK board, with winners announced at the annual conference.
