Rhiannon Matthews, a graduate of Leeds Trinity University’s Theology and Religious Studies course, has won the ‘Care Award’ at BBC Radio Tees’ annual Make a Difference Awards after she played a key role in saving the life of a pupil suffering a bleed on the brain.

Rhiannon now works at St Michael's Catholic Academy in Billingham and, in November 2023, acted quickly to get the help required when it became clear that a young girl named Rose was experiencing a medical emergency.

Able to identify the symptoms of the bleed after witnessing her mother suffer a similar episode, Rhiannon immediately alerted onsite first aiders and called the emergency services. Rhiannon waited with Rose and accompanied her to the hospital where she met Rose’s parents and comforted them by explaining the meaning of often confusing medical terminology.

In the weeks and months afterwards, Rhiannon stayed in close contact with the family to offer additional support, even taking Rose’s favourite foods and drinks to her at the Royal Victoria Hospital in Newcastle when she was struggling to rediscover her appetite.

She has since helped Rose phase back into school life by liaising with a brain injury nurse to create a bespoke timetable which helps her avoid fatigue, meeting with Rose for daily check-ins and ensuring her colleagues at St Michael's Catholic Academy are aware of her condition and know the steps to take if Rose displays similar issues or symptoms in future.

Having seen the lengths Rhiannon went to in order to help their daughter, Rose’s parents nominated Rhiannon for the Care Award at the recent Make a Difference Awards, a yearly event held to thank and applaud those who have made life better for others in their community.

A panel of judges, including X Factor winner James Arthur, Dragon's Den star Sara Davies and ex-footballer turned TV presenter Chris Kamara, selected Rhiannon as the winner in her category, and she collected her award at a ceremony held in Darlington on Sunday 29 September.

Rhiannon said: “I am overwhelmed by the award but feel humbled that Rose’s parents chose to nominate me. That day was probably the scariest I’ve experienced but it was a whole team effort to ensure Rose got the care she needed. I just did what anyone would have done in that situation by being there for the family and making sure they were all okay.”

Mike Dessington, Interim Head of the School of Children, Young People and Families at Leeds Trinity University, said: "We are immensely proud of Rhiannon for winning the Care Award. This achievement exemplifies how the values and insights gained from our programme can be powerfully applied in real-world caregiving. It demonstrates that the study of theology and religion not only enriches the mind but also inspires practical compassion and service in our society."

For more information on Children, Young People and Families degrees at Leeds Trinity, visit the University website.

To find out more about Rhiannon's time at Leeds Trinity University, read her ‘Meet our Alumni’ profile.