This award celebrates an individual or team who demonstrates kindness and compassion in everything they do. Whether caring for patients, supporting families, or uplifting colleagues, the nominee consistently demonstrates warmth, understanding, and genuine empathy.

Their actions, big or small, make a significant impact—bringing comfort to those in distress, fostering a culture of respect and inclusion, and ensuring that every person they encounter feels heard, valued, and supported.

This award honours those who go beyond their duties to make UHNM a place where kindness thrives, and compassionate care and leadership is at the heart of every interaction.

Shortlist:

• Liz Tunney - PMRT Midwife

Liz Tunney is nominated for her unwavering empathy, warmth, and dedication to patients, families, and colleagues. As Perinatal Mortality Review Lead Midwife, she goes far beyond her role, supporting bereaved families with kindness, guiding them through their most difficult moments, and ensuring their voices are heard. Liz’s impact is felt in every interaction, whether uplifting colleagues, fostering trust, or meeting national standards with outstanding results. She has exceeded expectations in delivering external reviews, strengthened UHNM’s care standards, and continues to support women and staff as a Professional Midwifery Advocate. 

• Ward 12

Ward 12 is nominated for their exceptional dedication to both respiratory and palliative care patients, providing compassionate support to individuals and their families during the most difficult times. 
The team works tirelessly to create a “home from home” environment, accommodating family visits, pets, and personal touches to bring comfort. Their empathy extends beyond patients to relatives, ensuring they feel supported with kindness, listening, and small but meaningful gestures. Ward 12 ensures patients’ comfort and dignity are prioritised, enabling many to spend their final days in their preferred place of care. 

• Jude Davies - Lead Professional Midwifery Advocate (WINNER)

Jude Davies is nominated for her exceptional compassion, advocacy, and support for women, families, and colleagues. She champions women’s voices in birth choices, offering safe, empowering care, especially for those who have experienced trauma. Her empathetic, non-judgmental approach fosters healing and autonomy, while her collaboration with medical teams ensures women’s wishes remain central. Beyond her clinical role, Jude uplifts and supports her colleagues, creating a positive, respectful, and united workplace. Her dedication and influence are deeply felt both within her team and across the wider NHS community.

This award celebrates an individual or team that exemplifies the power of working together to achieve excellence in patient care and staff support. Through strong teamwork, open communication, and a shared vision, they break down barriers and create meaningful partnerships across departments, services, or organisations.

With kindness at the heart of their approach, they actively listen, engage colleagues, and foster an inclusive environment where everyone feels valued and respected. Their commitment to equity, diversity, and inclusion (EDI) strengthens relationships and ensures that diverse voices contribute to innovative solutions.

By embodying the values of Kindness, Togetherness, and Excellence, this award honours those who demonstrate that when we work together, we create a stronger, more inclusive NHS for all.

Shortlist:

• The HRD Collaborative Team 

The HRD Collaborative Team has transformed care for vulnerable patients using real-time data and teamwork across seven services. Their innovative tool reduces hospital stays and improves outcomes, perfectly reflecting UHNM’s values of compassion, collaboration, and excellence.

• Soft FM and Recruitment Team (WINNER)

The UHNM Soft FM and Recruitment Teams, in partnership with the Staffordshire and Stoke-on-Trent ICS, have delivered a life-changing initiative that exemplifies compassion, collaboration, and community impact. By supporting 25 care-experienced young people into NHS roles, they’ve created a tailored, inclusive recruitment model that prioritises kindness and long-term support. From bespoke events to personal guidance, their efforts have empowered individuals to find purpose and belonging within the NHS. Recognised nationally and honoured with the Chief Executive’s Award, this project has transformed lives and strengthened UHNM’s commitment to inclusivity.

• Safeguarding and Vulnerable Patient Team

The Safeguarding and Vulnerable Patient Team at UHNM exemplifies collaboration, compassion, and clinical excellence. Supporting both adults and children facing complex safeguarding concerns, they deliver person-centred care with urgency, empathy, and professionalism. What sets this team apart is their seamless partnership with external agencies, from social care to police, creating a joined-up, system-wide response that protects and empowers. Beyond direct care, they lead staff training, policy development, and continuous improvement, making UHNM a safer, more inclusive place for all. 

This award recognises an individual or team that is committed to making UHNM a truly inclusive place for staff, patients, and the wider community. They champion equity, diversity, and inclusion (EDI) by ensuring that people of all backgrounds, abilities, and identities—whether in relation to ethnicity, disability, long-term conditions, neurodiversity, gender, or any other characteristic—feel welcomed, valued, and supported.

Through their actions, they break down barriers, challenge inequalities, and create accessible, safe spaces where everyone has a voice. By living the values of Kindness, Together, and Excellence, they make a meaningful difference in shaping a fairer and more inclusive UHNM for everyone.

Shortlist:

• UHNM Disability, Long Term Condition and Neurodiversity Staff Network (WINNER)

The UHNM Disability, Long Term Conditions and Neurodiversity Staff Network is a powerful force for inclusion, compassion, and change. Under the inspiring leadership of Gemma Grimes, the Network has championed the voices of colleagues with disabilities, long-term conditions, and neurodifferences, driving forward transformative initiatives such as the Tailored Adjustments Plan. By working collaboratively with the Trust, the Network has improved workplace experiences, enhanced disability equality metrics, and helped UHNM achieve Disability Confident Employer status. Embodying the value of Together, this passionate and solution-focused team is creating a workplace where every colleague can thrive.

• Lewis Bunn - Lived Experience Expert (Oliver McGowan)

Lewis Bunn, UHNM’s Patient Safety Champion for Lived Experience, is a truly inspiring force for inclusion, accessibility, and compassion. A full-time wheelchair user with a mild learning difficulty, Lewis brings invaluable insight as both a staff member and service user. Since joining UHNM through Project Search, he has led transformative accessibility improvements across the Trust, from redesigning bin access for wheelchair users to advocating for inclusive reception spaces. His work on site navigation for patients with cognitive, sensory, and physical needs is visionary, and his passion for change is matched only by his kindness and dedication.

• EDS awareness group

This remarkable team of UHNM staff and their family members has made an extraordinary contribution to disability inclusion, particularly for those affected by Ehlers-Danlos syndrome (EDS). Through powerful storytelling, including a moving film viewed over 100,000 times across platforms, and creative awareness events, complete with a 6ft inflatable zebra, they’ve brought visibility to an often “invisible” condition. Their advocacy has sparked meaningful conversations, educated healthcare professionals, and supported both patients and colleagues with disabilities. From hosting grand rounds and national publications to championing inclusive workplace practices, this team embodies UHNM’s values of Kindness, Together, and Excellence.

This award recognises an individual or team that consistently upholds the highest standards of care, compassion, and professionalism in everything they do. Their commitment to Kindness, Togetherness, and Excellence drives innovation, improves patient outcomes, and enhances the overall experience for both patients and staff.

Through their dedication and expertise, they set a benchmark for quality, ensuring that UHNM delivers safe, effective, and compassionate care every day. Whether through exceptional leadership, clinical expertise, or service delivery, their contributions inspire others to strive for excellence and make a lasting impact on the health and wellbeing of the communities they serve.

This award celebrates those who go above and beyond to ensure that UHNM continues to provide world-class care, with empathy and respect at its core.

Shortlist:

• Claire DeKlerk - Senior Sister for Quality and Patient Safety, Critical Care

Claire DeKlerk, Quality and Patient Safety Sister in Adult Critical Care, is a driving force behind excellence in care, compassion, and safety. Her leadership has transformed the unit through pioneering initiatives, including the adoption of a Safety-II model, development of Trust-wide extravasation injury guidance, and the re-writing of major policies with frontline insight. Claire’s dedication to continuous improvement, open reporting culture, and patient advocacy has strengthened outcomes and morale across the team. With her recent MSc and unwavering commitment to learning, she sets the benchmark for quality and professionalism.

• Alice Holt - Emergency Medicine Consultant, A&E (WINNER)

The Frailty Assessment Unit at County Hospital, led by Alice, stands as one of UHNM’s most remarkable achievements in the past year. Born from Alice’s vision and dedication, the unit delivers truly patient-centred care through a multidisciplinary team including therapists, pharmacists, social workers, and more. Thanks to her leadership, 87% of patients return home the same day, preventing five admissions daily and significantly reducing hospital bed days. Her tireless work has transformed service delivery and positioned County Hospital as an exemplar provider, leaving a legacy of excellence and compassion.

• Sunitha Rajan - Endoscopist Nurse

Sunitha Rajan exemplifies excellence through her visionary leadership, compassionate mentorship, and unwavering dedication to patient care. She has been instrumental in launching innovative services at UHNM, including the nurse-led New Barrett’s clinic and the upcoming Capsule Sponge service, which will significantly reduce endoscopy waiting times. Sunitha goes far beyond her role, offering guidance even on her days off, solving complex challenges, and empowering colleagues with confidence and support. Her ability to unite teams, advocate for patient safety, and lead with kindness and courage has created lasting change. 

This award celebrates an individual who has shown exceptional promise and dedication to their professional growth. Through focused effort and a proactive approach to learning, they have made a significant impact within their role and contributed to the success of their team and UHNM as a whole.

Their proactive approach to learning, personal development, and innovation has led to meaningful contributions, inspiring others with their passion and drive. They consistently seek opportunities to improve and grow, positioning themselves as a future leader who will help shape UHNM for years to come.

This award recognises those who are not only excelling in their current roles but are actively investing in their ongoing development to achieve even greater success in the future.

Shortlist:

• Sadie Bennett - Cardiac Clinical Scientist Officer, Cardiology ECG Department

Sadie is a trailblazing Cardiac Clinical Scientist whose passion for research, education, and innovation is transforming echocardiography at UHNM and beyond. As the winner of a prestigious NIHR Clinical Academic Fellowship, she is leading national work on the safe integration of AI into heart ultrasound services, collaborating with the British Society of Echocardiography and the British Heart Foundation. Sadie’s commitment to patient and public involvement, her support for colleagues’ academic development, and her leadership in national guideline creation have earned her multiple accolades, including the BSE Fellowship and the Dave Richley Outstanding Education Award.

• Sarah Tinsley - Pharmacy Team Leader (WINNER)

Sarah has made UHNM history as the first pharmacist to pass the Consultant Pharmacist Portfolio and the first Specialist Surgical Pharmacist in the country to achieve this incredible milestone. Her vision, dedication, and leadership have transformed surgical pharmacy services, from delivering frontline care to spearheading national initiatives. Sarah’s achievements include leading the PreAMS pilot to reduce surgery cancellations, enhancing the role of pharmacy technicians, improving post-operative opiate prescribing, and chairing the Pharmacy Research Group. She’s also the national lead for the development of the Perioperative Handbook, helping standardise care across the UK.

• Jody Kent - Senior Staff Nurse, Critical Care Unit

Jody is a shining example of dedication, growth, and team spirit within Critical Care. Over the past year, she has embraced every opportunity to develop her clinical and leadership skills, stepping into the Junior Sister role with passion and purpose. From presenting at the Critical Care Annual Conference to leading initiatives that reduce violence, noise, and improve inclusivity, Jody’s impact has been felt across the unit. Her involvement in cultural events, mentorship of colleagues, and tireless commitment to patient care, often in her own time, show her exceptional drive and heart. 

This award recognises an individual or team whose exceptional dedication to the UHNM Charity has made a lasting impact on the lives of patients, families, and staff. Through their tireless efforts in fundraising, volunteering, and/or championing the charity’s cause, they have contributed significantly to enhancing patient care and supporting the overall wellbeing of the NHS community.

Their commitment to going above and beyond to raise awareness and provide much-needed resources and opportunities that would not otherwise be available demonstrates the true spirit of generosity and compassion. The recipient(s) of this award have shown an outstanding ability to inspire others and bring people together to make a difference in the lives of those who need it most.

This award is a testament to the spirit of giving and the positive change that comes from supporting those in need whilst offering unwavering support for the UHNM Charity and its mission.

WINNER: The HRD Collaborative Team

This award recognises an individual or team whose dedication and impact often goes uncelebrated, but whose contributions are essential to the smooth running of us here at UHNM. They consistently offer support, tackle challenges, and provide exceptional care in ways that may not always be visible but are deeply felt by those around them.

Whether it's going the extra mile for patients, providing invaluable support to colleagues, or handling day-to-day tasks with exceptional skill and care, they are the quiet champions who make a real difference. Their efforts may not always be in the spotlight, but their work ensures that we as an organisation function at our best.

This award celebrates those who demonstrate true humility and dedication, whose efforts may not always be seen, but whose influence is felt every day.

Shortlist:

• Patricia Burns - Imaging

Trish is not just part of the team; she’s a huge part of what makes radiology all work smoothly. As the vital link between radiology and paediatrics, she ensures young patients receive timely, compassionate care, often anticipating needs before they’re even spoken. Trish is the go-to person for urgent requests, complex coordination, and everyday support, always delivering with a smile and unwavering professionalism. Her ability to ease pressure, uplift colleagues, and create a sense of calm in busy moments has made her indispensable. Trish doesn’t seek praise, but her impact is deeply felt across both teams. She’s the glue that holds us together, and a shining example of excellence in action.

• Michael (Mick) Mallin - Operational Support Manager, Interventional Radiology (WINNER)

Mick Mallin’s dedication and innovation have transformed patient safety and team efficiency. Since joining UHNM, Mick has revolutionised stock management, ensuring critical supplies are available when they matter most, directly improving patient outcomes. His collaborative spirit, trusted relationships with clinical teams and suppliers, and ability to navigate complex systems with ease have earned him admiration across the Trust. From training medical device reps to streamlining approvals, Mick’s work is not only meticulous but mission-critical. Mick embodies humility, perseverance, and integrity and his impact reaches far beyond logistics.

• Patient Experience (PALS and Formal Complaints)

The PALS and Formal Complaints teams are true unsung heroes of UHNM, working tirelessly behind the scenes to support patients, visitors, and staff through some of the most challenging and emotional moments. With compassion, resilience, and professionalism, they navigate complex concerns, de-escalate difficult situations, and ensure that every voice is heard. Whether resolving issues swiftly on the front line or guiding formal complaints with fairness and empathy, their work directly improves patient care, builds trust, and supports staff wellbeing. Their teamwork, dedication, and ability to balance sensitivity with strength make them an essential part of UHNM’s success. 

This award recognises an individual who has demonstrated exceptional dedication and support for their peers throughout the year. They go beyond their own responsibilities to offer guidance, encouragement, and assistance, helping others to thrive and succeed within their team and the wider NHS community.

Whether it's offering a listening ear, sharing expertise, or stepping in to help during challenging times, this individual’s unwavering support fosters a positive, collaborative environment. Their ability to uplift colleagues, resolve conflicts with empathy, and inspire others to do their best makes them an invaluable team member.

This award celebrates a colleague whose impact goes far beyond their role—someone who consistently contributes to the success of others and creates a sense of unity, trust, and respect within the workplace.

Shortlist:

• Julie Stubbs - Heart Centre Legacy Mentor, Cardio-thoracic Surgery

Julie Stubbs has worked in the cardiac catheter lab at Royal Stoke for over 30 years, leading with compassion, innovation, and unwavering professionalism. Under her leadership, the department has grown into a nationally and internationally respected centre, known for its efficiency and excellence. Julie has played a pivotal role in pioneering services such as primary PCI for myocardial infarction, complex pacing device implantation, and TAVI, all delivered without compromising patient care despite increasing demand. Julie’s dedication to both patients and colleagues, her ability to foster a culture of trust and excellence has left an enduring legacy that will continue to shape the department long after her retirement.

• Liz Gunning - Radiology Consultant

Dr Liz Gunning is a transformational leader whose time as Clinical Director for Imaging has left a lasting legacy. Through her inclusive and engaging approach, from legendary pizza huddles to meaningful staff forums, Liz has united teams, improved retention, and fostered a culture of trust and growth. Her determination to challenge the status quo and support colleagues at every level has created a resilient, thriving directorate. Now stepping into her new role as Medical Director of Unplanned Care, Liz’s inspirational leadership continues to shape the future of UHNM.

• Rebecca Dack - Paediatric Consultant, Child Health (WINNER)

Dr Rebecca Dack is an inspiring mentor and colleague whose unwavering dedication, kindness, and support have made a lasting impact. She goes above and beyond to guide and uplift others, offering thoughtful mentorship, personalised feedback, and a calm, empathetic presence. Her commitment to professional development and creating a culture of continuous learning has empowered those around her to grow with confidence. Dr Dack truly embodies the values of this award and is a shining example of excellence in healthcare.

This award recognises a team that has demonstrated exceptional collaboration, innovation, and resilience in achieving outstanding results over the year. Their collective efforts have made a significant impact on patient care, service delivery, and the overall UHNN experience, driven by a shared commitment to excellence and mutual support.

Whether through effective problem-solving, adapting to challenges, or delivering results in a dynamic environment, this team has consistently worked together to meet both short-term goals and long-term objectives. Their ability to embrace diversity, leverage individual strengths, and work seamlessly toward a common purpose sets them apart.

This award celebrates a team that has not only achieved excellence but has also fostered an environment of trust, respect, and continuous improvement, making a lasting contribution to the success of UHNM.

Shortlist:

• North West Midlands Cystic Fibrosis Centre

The North West Midlands Cystic Fibrosis Centre is a beacon of excellence, compassion, and innovation. Serving children and adults across the region, this truly multidisciplinary team delivers seamless, high-quality care while pioneering digital health solutions, such as virtual clinics, home IV therapy, and advanced diagnostics. Their commitment to research and education is nationally recognised, with contributions to CF HealthHub, UK CF Registry, and international conferences. The team nurtures future clinicians through placements and mentorship, earning heartfelt praise from students and patients alike. With integrated paediatric and adult services, outreach clinics, and a culture of kindness and collaboration, the Centre is not just a clinical service, it’s a life-changing community.

• Ward 221 (WINNER)

Ward 221 has undergone a remarkable transformation under its new leadership, turning a Bronze CEF accreditation into a catalyst for excellence. Through open forums, collaborative problem-solving, and a shared vision for gold-standard care, the team has dramatically improved vitals compliance from 69% to over 90%, enhanced documentation, and embraced new clinical challenges like cardiac monitoring and TAVI care. Their commitment to continuous improvement, staff development, and patient safety has created a culture of togetherness, resilience, and pride.

• Spinal Surgery Service

The Spinal Surgery Department at UHNM has delivered an extraordinary turnaround in elective recovery, reducing their >52-week waiting list by an incredible 95%. This achievement is the result of visionary leadership, cross-functional collaboration, and innovative solutions like the nationally recognised ‘super clinic’ model, which saw up to 96 patients in a single day and has now been shared across the NHS. The team introduced day case pathways, streamlined admin processes, and developed a live tracking system to ensure every patient’s journey was visible and well-managed. Their success has not only improved patient outcomes locally but enabled UHNM to offer mutual aid to other Trusts, showcasing the department’s commitment to excellence, efficiency, and compassionate care.

This award recognises an individual who has made an outstanding impact within UHNM, as voted for by the public. Their dedication, compassion, and exceptional service have resonated with patients, families, and the wider community, earning them the respect and admiration of those they serve.

Whether through providing outstanding care, going above and beyond for patients, or making a positive difference in their local community, this individual has consistently demonstrated the values of UHNM. The People’s Choice Award celebrates someone who has made a lasting impression and truly embodies what it means to serve with excellence, kindness, and professionalism.

This award reflects the public’s gratitude and recognition for someone who has made a meaningful difference in the lives of others.

Shortlist:

• Sarah Lake - Bereavement Midwife, Obstetrics (WINNER)

Sarah has provided exceptional, compassionate care to a family navigating the heartbreak of preterm labour and baby loss. From supporting them during their time in hospital to creating a vital support group that became a lifeline, Sarah’s dedication has continued for over eight years. Her unwavering kindness and ongoing support, not just for the patient, but also for their husband, exemplify her commitment to helping families heal. Sarah’s impact reaches far beyond the hospital walls, offering comfort, understanding, and hope to parents coping with loss.

• Gomathy Gopal the team 

Caroline Lowndes credits her life and that of her newborn daughter Marleigh to the extraordinary teamwork and expertise of UHNM’s specialist maternity teams. Diagnosed with placenta accreta spectrum (PAS), Caroline experienced a life-threatening uterine rupture at 35 weeks pregnant. Thanks to the swift, coordinated response from obstetrics, gynaecology, anaesthetics, urology, maternity, and pathology teams, both Caroline and Marleigh were safely cared for through emergency surgery, NICU support, and high-dependency recovery.

• Gareth Rowlands  - Ear, Nose and Throat Consultant, ENT 

Mr Rowlands, ENT Surgeon, has provided exceptional care and support to his patients for over a decade, demonstrating unwavering kindness, compassion, and professionalism. His thoughtful approach, from taking time to listen and reassure a nervous patient, to respecting their preferences and building mutual trust, exemplifies the very best of UHNM’s values. Mr Rowlands consistently goes above and beyond, ensuring every visit is calm, respectful, and centred around the patient’s needs. His dedication, empathy, and outstanding bedside manner make him a true credit to the ENT department.

The Outstanding Achievement Award is a prestigious award chosen by the CEO to honour an individual or team who has demonstrated exceptional dedication, initiative, and impact within UHNM. This award recognises those who have gone above and beyond their day-to-day responsibilities, showing outstanding leadership, resilience, and innovation in their work.

The recipient(s) of this award have consistently demonstrated the core values of UHNM driving meaningful change and improvements in patient care, staff wellbeing, and organisational effectiveness. Their contributions have made a tangible difference, whether through transformative projects, overcoming significant challenges, or developing new ways to improve services and outcomes for patients and the wider community.

Chosen by the CEO, this award acknowledges the highest level of achievement and the profound influence the recipient(s) have had within the organisation. Their exceptional efforts set a benchmark for excellence and inspire others to continually strive for improvement and innovation.

The Outstanding Achievement Award celebrates individuals or teams whose vision, passion, and commitment have not only delivered outstanding results but have also shaped the future of healthcare, embodying the spirit of collaboration and progress that is central to UHNM

WINNER: Lorraine Whitehead, Director of Estates, Facilities and PFI