2026 Finalists

The UHNM Robotic Assisted Surgery Programme has become one of the Trust's most innovative surgical programmes. Built on collaboration across specialties, it continues to advance surgical excellence while delivering significant benefits for patients. 

Clinicians from urology, gynaecology, colorectal, thoracic, hepatobiliary and spinal surgery have worked together to expand robotic-assisted surgery. Colleagues have developed new theatre roles, introduced training and shared learning with teams nationally and internationally. 

For patients, robotic-assisted surgery can reduce trauma, shorten hospital stays, lower complication rates and support faster recovery. The programme's achievements have strengthened UHNM's reputation for innovation and demonstrate what can be achieved through ambition, collaboration and a shared commitment to better outcomes. 

The Surgical ACP Team has transformed surgical care at UHNM through innovation, determination and an unwavering commitment to patient outcomes. Since the team was established in 2022, it has rapidly developed high-impact services that have improved experience, pathways and flow without additional funding or resources. 

A major achievement has been the Surgical Virtual Ward, enabling suitable patients to recover safely at home following major surgery. The team has also developed local anaesthetic treatment and nurse-led pathways that improve access to investigations, treatment and discharge planning. 

Hundreds of patients have benefited, with bed-day savings and reduced pressure on theatre capacity. Alongside service improvement, the team supports education and builds strong multidisciplinary relationships. Its innovation, resilience and focus on care are helping shape the future of surgery at UHNM. 

Kimberley Perickathara has led the transformation of tobacco dependency services at UHNM, creating a comprehensive prevention programme for patients, staff and communities. Through her vision, a small inpatient-focused service has developed into a whole-hospital model that places prevention at the centre of care. 

Kim has expanded support across inpatient and outpatient settings, increasing screening, referrals and successful quit rates. She developed a dedicated outpatient clinic, supported by external funding, and embedded smoking cessation into wider pathways including prehabilitation. 

Her approach is rooted in continuous improvement. By using data to evaluate and refine services, she ensures changes are evidence-based, sustainable and responsive to patient needs. Kim is helping shift healthcare towards prevention and improving long-term health and wellbeing. 

The EPMA Programme Team delivered one of UHNM's most significant clinical and digital transformation programmes, successfully introducing Electronic Prescribing and Medicines Administration across unplanned care and inpatient services. The achievement is particularly notable because previous attempts over several years had faced significant challenges. 

Through determination, resilience and multidisciplinary collaboration, the team delivered a complex change programme that is improving patient care. The system has enhanced medication safety, improved access to accurate prescribing information and enabled real-time documentation, reducing risks associated with paper-based processes. 

Success was built on strong relationships across pharmacy, nursing, medicine, digital services, operational teams and informatics. Team members worked beyond traditional boundaries, engaged openly with colleagues and ensured patient safety remained central to every decision. More than a digital implementation, the programme demonstrates what can be achieved when colleagues unite behind a shared purpose and has created a lasting legacy for UHNM. 

The CDC Programme Team led the development and successful opening of the Stoke Community Diagnostic Centre, one of the largest and most complex projects undertaken by UHNM in recent years. Following three years of planning and development, the centre opened in April 2026 and now delivers a wide range of diagnostic services. 

The project required colleagues from estates, workforce, finance, digital, communications, strategy and clinical services to work closely throughout every stage. Together, they transformed a former supermarket into a modern healthcare facility while managing workforce recruitment, clinical mobilisation, governance and operational planning. 

The team overcame changing funding arrangements, estate complexities, workforce shortages and the need to maintain interim services while construction continued. Their shared commitment delivered a facility that has increased local diagnostic capacity and improved access to care for communities across Staffordshire and Stoke-on-Trent, supporting earlier diagnosis and better health outcomes. 

The FAU County Team has established an outstanding multidisciplinary service for older patients, bringing together emergency consultants, nurses, therapists, pharmacists, ACPs, AHPs and administrative colleagues to deliver specialist frailty care at County Hospital. What began as a pilot has developed into a permanent and highly successful unit. 

Through rapid multidisciplinary assessment, coordinated discharge planning and strong partnerships with community services, the team has helped reduce unnecessary admissions and A&E re-attendances while improving patient experience and supporting flow across the hospital. 

Its commitment to continuous improvement is evident through teaching, audit, research and innovation, including work to improve medication optimisation and support patients at home. At the heart of the service is a culture of kindness, collaboration and mutual respect. The journey from pilot to nationally recognised unit reflects the team's resilience and dedication to improving care for older people. 

Since joining the Frailty Team at County Hospital, Rajdip Mattu has made a remarkable impact on patient care and service development. Early in her career within frailty services, she has quickly become a highly valued team member through her enthusiasm, clinical expertise and determination to improve outcomes for older patients. 

Raj approaches every opportunity with energy and curiosity. A particular strength has been her contribution to medication reviews and deprescribing. Her patient-centred approach has helped people with complex medication needs achieve meaningful improvements in health and quality of life. 

Alongside her clinical role, Raj is helping to shape an admission-avoidance project for care home residents through proactive medication review and intervention. Her compassion, professionalism and commitment to learning mark her out as a future leader within frailty care. 

Since joining the Site Team, Rachel Berry has made an immediate impact through leadership, innovation and a commitment to improving patient care. Taking on the challenge of developing the Trust Discharge Lounge, she has demonstrated vision and determination while transforming a service that is vital to patient flow. 

Rachel has built a supportive, high-performing team culture where colleagues feel valued and empowered. She has introduced creative initiatives to encourage greater use of the lounge, including recognition schemes for wards and myth-busting sessions to build understanding and confidence. 

Her leadership is underpinned by intelligent use of data to improve utilisation and effectiveness. The service is helping patients leave hospital safely and promptly while supporting operational flow. Rachel combines compassion with operational excellence and demonstrates the qualities of a future senior clinical leader. 

Oyindamola Olatunde, known to colleagues as Honey, has made an exceptional contribution to patient care, nursing practice and team development through compassion, professionalism and a commitment to learning. Early in her nursing career, she has already become a valued colleague whose impact is felt by patients, families and staff. 

Honey places patients at the centre of everything she does, delivering safe, dignified and compassionate care. Patients and families are reassured by her calm approach, while colleagues value her willingness to step forward and help during demanding periods. 

She actively embraces opportunities to refine her skills and contribute to evidence-based care. Her growing involvement in critical care research and interest in advancing nursing practice demonstrate ambition and a genuine desire to improve outcomes. Her maturity, dependability and positive approach mark her out as an inspiring Rising Star. 

Dan Tudor has quickly established himself as a trusted expert in one of healthcare's fastest-moving areas. As UHNM's AI Technical Lead, he has helped the organisation understand, explore and implement artificial intelligence safely, responsibly and effectively. 

Dan provides clear guidance across a complex landscape of opportunities, risks and responsibilities, ensuring governance, compliance and patient safety remain central to decisions. One of his greatest strengths is making complex topics accessible, helping teams understand emerging technology and turn ideas into practical solutions. 

His calm, approachable style has built confidence among colleagues unfamiliar with AI. He also helps the Trust prioritise opportunities so that projects deliver genuine value while remaining safe and achievable. Through expertise, collaboration and responsible innovation, Dan is helping to shape UHNM's digital future. 

Maciej Blaczkowski's journey at UHNM is a remarkable example of determination, curiosity and professional growth. Since joining Estates as a Maintenance Assistant in 2018, he has embraced opportunities to learn, develop and improve the services that help keep patients and staff safe. 

Maciej developed a reputation for problem-solving, supporting colleagues and finding practical solutions. In 2023, he was promoted to Water Hygiene and Compliance Technician and has since taken responsibility for a substantial water-sampling programme, supported infection prevention investigations and become a trusted source of expertise. 

Alongside his role, Maciej completed an HNC in Building Services and received regional student recognition. He shares his knowledge generously and encourages others to ask questions and develop. His story shows what can be achieved through curiosity, determination and continuous learning. 

Kellie Edwards has made an exceptional impact during her secondment as Senior Operations Manager, demonstrating leadership, innovation and a strong commitment to improving services. In a relatively short period, she has delivered improvements that have strengthened domestic services and contributed to safer, more efficient care environments. 

Kellie has improved cleaning standards and assurance processes, recognising the link between high-quality cleaning, patient experience and infection prevention. A standout achievement has been the introduction of a corridor-cleaning robot, developed with Infection Prevention and Control and with creative engagement from Children's Services. 

She has also led the implementation of new cleaning products and supported training for hundreds of domestic staff. Her professionalism, inclusive leadership and enthusiasm for improvement demonstrate impressive potential and make her a strong role model for colleagues. 

Emma Phillips has transformed the experience of therapy students and educators across UHNM through her commitment to a safe, supportive and inclusive learning environment. As Education Placement Facilitator, she works across therapy teams at Royal Stoke and County Hospital to strengthen student placements and promote wellbeing and development. 

Emma has introduced student walkarounds, wellbeing drop-ins, simulation training and enhanced education programmes. She has embedded Freedom to Speak Up, sexual safety and inclusive learning into resources and induction, helping students feel prepared and confident. 

She also supports educators through challenging situations, offers practical guidance and celebrates student achievements. Her collaborative approach has strengthened relationships between education providers and clinical teams while expanding placement opportunities. Emma's work is helping the future workforce feel valued and able to thrive. 

Jokotade Adeshina is a powerful advocate for inclusion, belonging and professional development through her roles as a Professional Nurse Advocate and Co-Chair of the Ethnic Diversity Network. Her work is driven by a commitment to ensuring colleagues, particularly those from Global Majority backgrounds, feel heard, supported and empowered. 

Through restorative clinical supervision and network leadership, Jokotade has created safe spaces where colleagues can share experiences and access support. She champions career development through interview preparation, leadership development and networking opportunities, helping people build confidence and access new opportunities. 

Her influence extends to inclusive language guidance, anti-racism work and policies promoting respect and accountability. Through empathy, authenticity and unwavering commitment, Jokotade is strengthening belonging across UHNM and demonstrating how an inclusive workforce benefits both colleagues and patients. 

Rachael Topping has demonstrated an outstanding commitment to creating fair, inclusive and accessible opportunities within maternity services. As Lead Midwife for Recruitment and Retention, she champions equity, removes barriers and helps colleagues feel welcomed and supported throughout their careers. 

Rachael supports internationally educated colleagues, people returning from extended leave, staff requiring workplace adjustments and individuals navigating neurodiversity or long-term health conditions. Her person-centred approach helps colleagues feel understood and empowered. 

She creates psychologically safe spaces where people can share concerns and seek support, and collaborates with HR, education teams, clinical leaders and external organisations to improve recruitment, accessibility and development. Her advocacy is strengthening inclusion, belonging and equality across maternity services. 

Amy Smith is recognised for her extraordinary compassion, empathy and ability to support families during the most difficult moments of their lives. One particularly moving example demonstrates the profound difference she makes. 

Amy was supporting the family of a child who had sadly died unexpectedly. A planned keepsake intended to preserve the child's heartbeat could not be created because of a technical issue. Recognising the significance of this loss, Amy sought another way to provide the family with something meaningful to treasure. 

Knowing the child was remembered for her joyful laugh, Amy sensitively asked the family to share video recordings. She transformed the audio into sound clips for a memory bear, allowing the family to hear their daughter's laughter whenever they hold it close. Her creativity and compassion turned a heartbreaking disappointment into a deeply personal source of comfort and connection. 

The team on Ward 128 consistently demonstrates exceptional kindness, compassion and humanity through the care it provides to patients and families during some of life's most difficult moments. Its commitment to person-centred care extends far beyond clinical treatment. 

Over the past year, the team went above and beyond to facilitate two deeply moving weddings for patients receiving palliative care. Working with families, chaplaincy colleagues and support services, staff transformed clinical spaces into welcoming and dignified environments where patients could celebrate with loved ones. 

Each ceremony was planned with sensitivity and care, creating treasured memories at an incredibly important time. These acts reflect the culture of the ward every day. Patients and families regularly express their gratitude for the warmth and dedication shown by staff. Ward 128 is a community built on compassion, dignity and respect, creating moments of joy and humanity alongside excellent care. 

Jane Holmes is recognised not only for her leadership and commitment to patient safety, but also for the genuine kindness and compassion she shows to colleagues, patients and families. Her influence is often felt through simple acts of support that have a profound impact. 

For one colleague, Jane's encouragement arrived during an exceptionally challenging period involving illness, bereavement and personal difficulty. Her reassurance and belief provided strength when it was needed most. Jane takes time to understand people as individuals, offering support, guidance and honesty rather than simply asking how someone is. 

The same approach shapes her professional leadership. Jane works to create environments where colleagues feel safe to speak up, learn from experiences and share concerns openly. Through kindness, integrity and a commitment to supporting others, she has touched many lives across UHNM and exemplifies compassionate leadership. 

Dr Shehan Liyanage has made an exceptional contribution to neonatal care through his commitment to supporting, developing and empowering those around him. Widely respected as a mentor, educator and leader, he consistently goes beyond his clinical responsibilities to create an environment where colleagues feel supported, confident and able to thrive. 

A passionate advocate for learning, Dr Liyanage is approachable, generous with his knowledge and willing to invest time in helping others develop. One of his most notable achievements has been creating and leading a multidisciplinary neonatal simulation programme, bringing together doctors, nurses, midwives and the wider perinatal team to strengthen communication, teamwork and shared learning. 

He has also led evidence-based improvements aimed at improving outcomes for very preterm babies. His calm, reassuring and inclusive leadership style promotes psychological safety and a culture of continuous learning. Through mentorship, innovation and a commitment to excellence, he continues to make a lasting difference to colleagues and patients. 

Since joining the Site Team, Dianne Butler has had an immediate and lasting impact through her clinical expertise, dedication and leadership. Bringing a wealth of Emergency Department experience, she has strengthened the team while helping colleagues navigate a period of significant change and development. 

Dianne is widely respected for remaining calm and decisive in the most challenging situations. Her clinical judgement and swift action have directly contributed to saving lives, while her reassuring presence during major incidents and operational pressures provides confidence and stability to colleagues across the site. 

Beyond her clinical expertise, Dianne is known for her kindness, compassion and unwavering support for others. She takes time to check in on colleagues, offer encouragement and provide help whenever it is needed. Through her professionalism, positivity and commitment to improvement, Dianne continues to make the site safer, stronger and more supportive for patients and staff. 

Diane Poulson is widely recognised for her exceptional leadership, unwavering support for colleagues and commitment to helping others grow and succeed. Throughout her career, she has created an environment where people feel valued, encouraged and empowered to reach their full potential, often making a profound difference both professionally and personally. 

Colleagues describe Diane as someone who invests wholeheartedly in the development and wellbeing of those around her. She shares her knowledge generously, creates opportunities for others and combines support with constructive challenge. Her belief in people has enabled many colleagues to develop, thrive and achieve success. 

Diane's impact extends far beyond the people she directly manages. She has led significant transformation and cost-saving programmes, taken on additional leadership responsibilities and continued to oversee key services. Despite these demands, she remains calm, positive and approachable. With more than 25 years of service, Diane's integrity, professionalism and commitment to putting people first continue to strengthen both UHNM and its workforce. 

Brijesh Patel,  Emergency Medicine Consultant and Chief Medical Information Officer

Brijesh Patel has made an outstanding contribution to strengthening clinical digital leadership at UHNM, providing clear direction across clinical safety, digital transformation and medical engagement. His leadership has helped ensure patient safety remains at the heart of digital innovation while supporting the Trust's continued journey towards more efficient and effective ways of working. 

A key part of Brijesh's contribution has been his work to improve clinical safety standards and governance. He has also played a vital role in supporting the implementation of Electronic Prescribing and Medicines Administration (EPMA) across Emergency Department and inpatient services. Working closely with consultant colleagues and clinical teams, he has encouraged engagement, addressed concerns and helped build confidence in a programme that is improving medication safety and patient care. 

Known for his approachable and collaborative leadership style, Brijesh encourages dialogue between clinicians and digital teams, ensuring that clinical voices are represented in decision-making. Alongside his work at UHNM, he engages with national networks and brings learning and best practice back to the Trust. His contribution is helping to shape the future of digital healthcare at UHNM and deliver lasting benefits for patients and colleagues. 

With more than 30 years of service, Tracey Sheehan is widely recognised as the heart of Ward 205. Through dedication, reliability and positivity, she is a constant source of support and reassurance for colleagues and patients. 

As Ward Clerk, Tracey coordinates essential tasks, solves problems and ensures information is available when needed. Her organisation and attention to detail allow her to anticipate issues and keep services running efficiently. Colleagues know they can turn to her for guidance and practical solutions. 

Tracey's warmth and calm presence create a supportive atmosphere even on demanding days. She also plays an important role in ward security and safe procedures. Although much of her work takes place quietly behind the scenes, her contribution across three decades is immeasurable. 

For anyone who has spent time on Ward 206, Paula Turnock is a familiar and welcoming presence. As Ward Clerk, she is often the first person patients, relatives and colleagues encounter, greeting everyone with warmth, humour and a smile that puts people at ease. 

Behind her friendly personality is an exceptionally organised professional who supports the day-to-day running of the ward. Paula's expertise in bed management, admissions and discharges helps maintain patient flow and keeps the ward functioning smoothly under pressure. 

She combines operational excellence with genuine kindness, always willing to help and support colleagues without seeking recognition. Although much of her contribution happens behind the scenes, its impact is felt throughout the ward every day, making Paula a true Unsung Hero. 

For more than three decades, Jill Webb has provided exceptional support to children, families and colleagues at the Child Development Centre. As Paediatric Secretary Team Leader, she is a vital part of the Community Paediatric Team, demonstrating compassion, reliability and an unwavering commitment to helping others. 

Families navigating complex and emotional journeys remember Jill's kindness, professionalism and reassuring presence. She ensures concerns are addressed promptly, appointments are coordinated effectively and people feel supported. Her attention to detail and organisational skills also keep services running smoothly and communication seamless. 

Jill balances professionalism with genuine compassion in every interaction. After 30 years of dedicated service, her quiet acts of care continue to make a profound difference to families and colleagues. 

The Bereavement Team has demonstrated that compassionate care and environmental sustainability can go hand in hand. Through innovation and continuous improvement, the team has introduced sustainable practices while continuing to provide exceptional support to families during some of life's most difficult moments. 

Led by Alex Chesworth and supported by colleagues across Royal Stoke and County, the team has reduced paper through digital solutions, streamlined documentation, improved recycling, reduced single-use plastics and encouraged reuse and water conservation. 

The team also shares ideas and promotes sustainable thinking across departments, influencing wider cultural change. Its work shows that caring for people and caring for the environment are complementary responsibilities, and that thoughtful changes can create lasting benefits for both people and the planet. 

Scott Taylor has shown how small, practical changes can make a significant difference to sustainability in healthcare. Through his commitment to reducing waste and encouraging responsible behaviours, he has helped embed greener ways of working within Endoscopy while keeping patient care the priority. 

Scott has introduced barcode systems to reduce paper, promoted double-sided printing and reusable cups, and established recycling areas that make sustainable choices easier. In clinical practice, he has encouraged better stock use and found ways to repurpose expired equipment for training. 

Scott leads through positive influence, helping colleagues see environmental responsibility as a shared commitment. His consistent advocacy demonstrates that sustainability does not always require large-scale change and that everyday actions can create meaningful, lasting impact. 

Rob Stedall and Matt Cope have led an innovative initiative that is changing how UHNM thinks about technology, sustainability and social value. Through the Revive Platform, securely wiped and professionally refurbished Trust devices can be reused rather than discarded. 

Working with hardware supplier SCC, they developed a process that addressed information governance, security, user confidence and operational requirements. Extending the lifespan of equipment reduces electronic waste and demand for new hardware, while making technology more affordable and accessible to staff. 

Beyond the environmental benefit, their work encourages a wider cultural shift in how digital assets are managed. Through vision, collaboration and determination, Rob and Matt have transformed a practical idea into a project with measurable environmental and social value. 

The ENT team at County Hospital, consisting of Mr Rowlands, Dianne Kelly, Annette Fitzpatrick and Sarah Kilbride, has been recognised for exceptional care, compassion and professionalism throughout patients' treatment journeys. 

For one patient, regular appointments can be challenging and demanding. The team's consistent support, clear communication and compassionate approach make these experiences easier to manage. By taking time to listen, explain and reassure, they create an environment where patients feel safe, respected and fully supported. 

The team combines clinical expertise with genuine empathy, ensuring patients feel understood and cared for during complex or emotionally difficult treatment. Its dedication and person-centred approach reflect the very best of healthcare. 

The Northwest Midlands Cystic Fibrosis Team has earned the admiration and gratitude of patients and families through exceptional care, compassion and support. Combining specialist expertise with genuine kindness, the team creates an environment where patients feel valued, listened to and cared for throughout every stage of their journey. 

For people living with cystic fibrosis, regular contact with healthcare services is a lifelong reality. The team builds trusted relationships and takes time to understand each individual's needs, concerns and aspirations, helping patients feel confident and empowered in managing their health. 

Patients and families frequently describe the service as feeling like an extended family. Through kindness, encouragement and unwavering support, the team helps people navigate significant challenges while maintaining dignity, hope and confidence. 

For one family, Dr Caroline Groves has made a life-changing difference through dedication, compassion and unwavering commitment to patient care. She has provided support and reassurance during some of the most challenging moments a family can face. 

The nomination describes the profound impact Dr Groves has had on a young patient and his family. Her care extended beyond clinical treatment, helping create hope and a quality of life that once felt impossible. Her expertise and compassion provided both practical support and emotional reassurance. 

For the child's mother, Dr Groves' encouragement brought confidence and the ability to embrace family life despite significant challenges. She embodies the expertise, compassion and dedication patients hope to find in a healthcare professional, and her influence reaches far beyond medicine. 

The Trust Band 2-3 Project Team exemplifies collaboration in delivering large-scale organisational change. Colleagues from nursing and midwifery, the People Directorate, finance, payroll, workforce information and trade union partners worked together to support fair pay, transparency and consistency for healthcare support workers. 

The programme was built on genuine partnership. Colleagues jointly designed processes, agreed methodologies and developed solutions rather than simply consulting one another. Strong relationships with trade unions and staff-side representatives enabled complex issues around eligibility, back pay and workforce modelling to be addressed constructively. 

Despite balancing the programme with day-to-day responsibilities, the team validated data, responded to queries and communicated openly with staff. The work has delivered fairer pay arrangements and clearer career pathways while creating a strong foundation for future partnership working. 

The Maternity Tobacco Dependency Team has transformed support for women and families across Staffordshire and Stoke-on-Trent through partnership working, innovation and a shared commitment to improving health outcomes. Working with midwifery colleagues, local authority stop-smoking services and healthcare partners, the team has improved access to support for families who want to quit smoking. 

Led operationally by Trish Burgess, the team has developed a service that reaches women both in hospital and in local communities. A key strength is its partnership model. Maternity champions, community practitioners and shared systems make it easier for people to receive joined-up support wherever they are. 

Despite strong results, the team continues to find new ways to reach communities where smoking remains more prevalent. Its creativity, determination and collective commitment are improving outcomes for women, babies and families. 

The Sexual Safety Team, led by Justine Alldritt and Sarah Curran, has delivered a transformational programme that has strengthened sexual safety across UHNM and helped create a safer, more inclusive workplace. Its success is rooted in collaboration across the organisation and with external partners. 

The team worked with safeguarding, organisational development, employee relations, Freedom to Speak Up, wellbeing services, communications teams and staff representatives to create a comprehensive, trauma-informed framework. Trade unions, staff-side representatives and external safeguarding partners contributed through meaningful co-design and shared ownership. 

A significant achievement has been the development of a Sexual Safety Champions network, providing trained peer support across the organisation. Together with awareness campaigns, training and clearer reporting pathways, this work has helped normalise important conversations, improve access to support and strengthen psychological safety.