A doctor from Redditch has received a top award for her outstanding achievements in psychiatry. 

Organised by Cygnet Health Care, one of the UK's largest independent providers of specialised mental health services, the Cygnet Annual Psychiatrists Conferences and National Awards 2024 recognise excellence in the healthcare industry. 

Dr Dale Lawrence has been working in psychiatry for more than 30 years and is currently the responsible officer at Cygnet Health Care. 

She was awarded the Swan Award in recognition of her outstanding achievements and commitment to high-quality patient care throughout her career. 

Dr Tony Romero, CEO of Cygnet, said: "It is difficult to summarise a full, varied and long career that has benefitted so many patients, carers and colleagues. She is a very special individual. 

"Dr Lawrence is incredibly passionate about what she does. Her motivation, compassion and values make a positive difference for our service users and our residents every single day. 

"Her skills, commitment and willingness to go above and beyond ensures that as an organisation, we are improving lives together. She gives our service users hope for a brighter future through constantly striving to provide high-quality, safe and person-centred care."

Dr Lawrence, who specialises in forensic psychiatry, autism and dementia, joined the clinical team at specialist autism service, Cygnet Health Care's Wast Hills, in 2008. 

Located in Kings Norton, Cygnet Wast Hills provides support for 21 individuals with autism, learning disabilities and complex needs. 

 In 2011, Dr Lawrence obtained an MBA in Health and Social Care.

She said: "Receiving the Swan Award was a complete surprise. It is extremely humbling to be recognised by my colleagues and Cygnet Health Care. 

"My journey as a psychiatrist started over 30 years ago and I have been in my current clinical role for over 16 years. 

"Despite publications in the Lancet, contributing to psychoeducational material, training and speaking at conferences, the real satisfaction for me over the years is that of making a difference in the lives of people with neurodevelopmental disorders and intellectual disabilities. 

"This is why I embarked on this journey and what has kept me motivated over the years.

"In recent years, I have had the privilege of supporting my medical colleagues in more senior roles, in particular that of the Responsible Officer for Cygnet Health Care.

"This has offered me the opportunity to try to ensure that all our doctors are able to practise in a safe, caring, supportive, compassionate and fair environment so they will thrive and grow. I am passionate about this."