Colleagues paid a special farewell to team leader Maureen Woods who retired in July after 34 years service.

Maureen, who was part of the harm reduction team at Coathill Hospital, initially worked as an enrolled nurse at Hartwood Hospital before embarking on a bridging course to become a staff nurse.

Whilst in this role, Maureen moved quickly into the addictions field within the community and subsequently completed her Post Graduate Diploma in alcohol and drug studies. Maureen continued to work with mental health and addictions and developed the blood borne virus agenda both locally and nationally.

During her lengthy career, Maureen has earned much respect professionally, both single and multi-agency and has been an asset to NHS Lanarkshire.

Maureen lives in Shotts with her husband Harry and has a daughter, Natalie.  In her spare time, Maureen enjoys travelling and spending time with her family and friends.  She has completed two triathlons and likes to keep active, enjoying long walks and either exercising in her home gym or attending the local gym.  She is also a keen baker.

Ross Miller, charge nurse, said: “I have worked with Maureen for approximately 22 years and during this time we have had some great times and fond memories.  She is a fine example of how someone in a caring profession should be and always goes the extra mile for clients.  I have thoroughly enjoyed working for so many years with Maureen and feel she is not just a colleague but a true friend. She will be sorely missed by all her colleagues within the harm reduction team”.