Claire Chick (photo edited so Claire appears in PhD robes)

A fund created in memory of a much-missed nursing lecturer has exceeded £20,000 – meaning it will be endowed and continue for future generations. 
The Claire Chick Nursing Fund was created in 2023 following the loss of an ‘incredible’ nurse and passionate advocate for students.  
Led by the University of Plymouth, with the support of Dr Chick’s family, the memorial fund was created to offer Plymouth’s student nurses travel bursaries, financial or personal hardship support, and other vital assistance.
The fund ultimately aims to ensure that nursing students – regardless of background or circumstance – can make the most of their education and go on to make a difference in our communities. 
Student nurse
ENNE nursing conference
Eleanor student mental health nurse
Students have already accessed the fund to travel to a European nursing conference – which Claire had previously visited herself – and the crucial £20,000 fundraising milestone has been achieved through running challenges, charity galas, and kind donations from individuals and organisations across the city.

The fund has already helped students to access opportunities that they otherwise wouldn’t have done, so it’s brilliant to know that it will continue for others in future.

It’s available to all of our cohorts, undergraduate and postgraduate across our sites in Plymouth, Exeter and Truro, meaning Claire’s legacy is felt right across the South West. 
A colleague and friend to so many, Claire was vibrant, an amazing nurse and so passionate about supporting students at all stages of their journey. I know she’d be very proud of everyone set to benefit from the fund, as well as those who helped to raise the money.

Heather HopperDr Heather Hopper
Deputy Head of the School of Nursing and Midwifery at the University of Plymouth