We are delighted to announce that our Anyone Can Ally programme has been shortlisted for the Staff Wellbeing and Culture Award at the HSJ Awards.
Our programme stood out as a real ‘success story’ worthy of a prized place on the panel’s shortlist for the award, which recognises an outstanding contribution to healthcare.
The culture and allyship programme was developed by Sarah Feather, Workforce Equality, Diversity and Inclusion Lead, to strengthen psychological safety, staff voice and confidence to speak up, following concerns identified through the Black and Minority Ethnic (BME) Rights and Advocacy Project ‘Too Hot to Handle’ report, and Staff Survey data. Workforce data showed colleagues from multicultural, disabled, LGBTQIA+ and female staff groups were less likely to report experiences of bullying, harassment or discrimination. In response, we delivered co-produced listening events, anonymous staff feedback opportunities, and a Board-supported Task and Finish Group, which culminated in the Anyone Can Ally programme. Consequently we saw significant increases in reporting confidence across multiple protected characteristic groups.
Sarah said, “We’re incredibly proud that our Anyone Can Ally programme has been recognised on a national stage. This nomination isn’t about a single initiative, it’s about the hundreds of colleagues who shared their experiences, challenged us to do better and helped shape the changes we’ve made together.
“What makes this recognition so special is that the programme was built with our colleagues, not for them. From our listening events and staff networks to the allyship video featuring our own colleagues, every part of the programme has been co-produced. Seeing more colleagues feel confident to speak up tells us we’re moving in the right direction, and we’re honoured that this work has been recognised by the HSJ Awards.”
Steve Aumayer, Deputy Chief Executive, Chief People Officer and Executive Sponsor for the Programme, said, “Creating an inclusive culture where every colleague feels safe, valued and able to speak up is fundamental to delivering outstanding care for our patients. Being shortlisted for this award recognises the commitment of colleagues across the trust who have embraced this work and shown that culture change is everyone’s responsibility.
“We’re particularly proud that this programme has been shaped by listening to our people and responding with meaningful action. While we’re delighted to be recognised nationally, we’re even more proud of the progress our colleagues have made in creating a more compassionate, inclusive workplace.”
“Our commitment has been recognised nationally before. In 2025, we won the HSJ Award for Veteran Support, a significant achievement that again highlighted our dedication to inclusion, lived experience and ensuring every colleague feels they belong. It demonstrated that when we listen, act and embed values in everyday practice, we deliver meaningful change for our people and our communities. I am thrilled to see our positive work in this area continue to be recognised.”
The winner will be announced during the awards ceremony on 19 November 2026.