For Metro South Health Occupational Therapy Assistant Simonne Berriman, compassion isn’t an abstract concept, it’s something she practises every day.
Simonne, who has worked in the GARU wards at Princess Alexandra Hospital for four years, was recently recognised with a PA Hospital Staff Award for Compassion, celebrating her ability to bring joy to patients during their rehabilitation journey.
“I really enjoy supporting people,” Simonne said. “This line of work allows me to get to know people on a deeper level. I’m able to use my energy to uplift and inspire people in a creative way to achieve their leisure goals.”
With a background in music, Simonne brings a unique and personal touch to her role, whether that’s supporting a patient to keep playing their ukulele or leading group singing sessions on the ward.
A typical day sees her working one-on-one with patients to support their individual rehabilitation goals, as well as running daily leisure groups including wool crafts, painting, bingo, baking, and music.
“It’s about helping people reconnect with the things they enjoy,” she said. “That might be something creative, social, or simply getting out for a coffee if they need support with mobility.”
For Simonne, compassion begins with listening.
“Compassion means deeply listening to a person and supporting them to use their strengths,” she said. “When someone feels heard, they can relax and focus on enjoying themselves and that’s when you start to see real progress.”
Her colleagues say it’s this ability to create moments of joy, through art, music, and meaningful connection, that sets Simonne apart and makes a lasting difference to patients’ wellbeing.
Through her work, Simonne exemplifies how small, thoughtful interactions can have a powerful impact, helping patients not only to recover, but rediscover a sense of self during their time in hospital.
Congratulations Simonne!