Farewell to a remarkable nurse: Sally-ann Coope
After an inspiring and dedicated career spanning over four decades, we bid a heartfelt farewell to Sally-ann Coope, whose tireless commitment and passion for nursing have touched the lives of countless patients and colleagues across Derbyshire.
Sally-ann’s journey in healthcare began in 1981, when she embarked on her registered general nurse training at Queen's Medical Centre in Nottingham. From there, she spent nearly a decade working as a staff nurse and ward sister/manager, before moving to South Derbyshire Community Services in 1990, where she took on the role of ward manager at Ripley Hospital, balancing the demands of a nursing career with raising two sons. Her pioneering spirit was evident when she took on the first ward manager job share in the Trust—a role she continued for eight years before returning to full-time work.
As the years passed, Sally-ann’s career continued to evolve. She became Ripley Hospital’s matron in the Amber Valley PCT era, embracing the challenges of modernising the role and focusing on providing exceptional care for the community she called home. From there, she went on to serve in various key roles, including professional executive committee nurse, general manager of community services, and matron for both Ripley and Babington Hospitals.
Sally-ann’s influence extended beyond hospital walls. Her leadership skills were recognised when she became involved in clinical turnaround teams and took on a seconded role with the Care Quality Commission (CQC), helping to shape inspections across community trusts. In 2014, she took on a pivotal role to develop and implement the "Quality Always" programme, a responsibility she embraced with dedication, ultimately growing the team and processes to have a lasting impact on the Trust.
Throughout her career, Sally-ann's contributions have been nothing short of exceptional. In 2024, she was named a Queen’s Nurse, an honour that reflects her unwavering commitment to high-quality patient care and nursing excellence. Her personal journey of professional growth also included studying at master’s level and sharing her expertise at conferences, supporting other Trusts with accreditation programmes.
However, it’s the people that Sally-ann holds most dear. Reflecting on her career, she shares that the best part of her role has been working alongside so many inspiring colleagues across the Trust. "I have been in awe of my colleagues, who deliver such fantastic care to the people of Derbyshire," Sally-ann says. "I will miss them all very much."
Sally-ann leaves behind a legacy of compassion, leadership and dedication to improving healthcare services for the community. As she embarks on this new chapter of her life, we wish her all the best and extend our deepest gratitude for the years of outstanding service she has provided. Her impact will be felt for many years to come.
Thank you, Sally-ann, for your incredible contribution to nursing and to the lives you’ve touched. You will always be part of the Derbyshire NHS family.