Colleagues, volunteers, partners and guests came together last night for a memorable evening of celebration at our annual Trust Awards, recognising the outstanding individuals and teams who make a difference every day across our trust.
The awards are one of the highlights of the year, providing an opportunity to shine a spotlight on the dedication, compassion, innovation and professionalism demonstrated by colleagues in every service and department. The evening celebrated not only our award winners and finalists, but also the many colleagues who were nominated by their peers, patients and members of the public.
Opening the ceremony on behalf of the Trust Board, Chairman Steve Phoenix reflected on the remarkable contribution colleagues make to the health and wellbeing of local communities every day.
“These awards are one of the most uplifting moments in our year. A chance for us to come together and celebrate the remarkable achievements of colleagues from across our trust, whose work, directly or indirectly, supports the health and wellbeing of our local communities.”
Throughout the evening, colleagues heard inspiring stories of kindness, innovation, leadership and teamwork. The awards showcased the extraordinary impact individuals and teams have on patient care, colleague wellbeing and the continuous improvement of services across our trust.
A particularly special moment came when the Chairman acknowledged every colleague who had been nominated for an award. This year, for the first time, all nominees received a copy of their nomination, ensuring everyone recognised by a colleague, patient or member of the public could see the positive difference they had made.
“Every single nomination matters,” said Steve. “It represents someone taking the time to say, “I see what you do, and it makes a difference.” That recognition means a great deal to the person nominated, and it speaks volumes about the strength of our culture and the values we live every day.”
The evening also included recognition for colleagues reaching the remarkable milestone of 40 years of NHS service, as well as the People’s Choice Award, voted for by patients and members of the public. This award highlights the appreciation felt by the communities we serve, and such was the strength of nominations that two winners were selected this year.
The celebrations concluded with the presentation of the Chairman’s Special Recognition Award and the prestigious Chairman’s Cup, before the Chairman thanked everyone who had contributed to making the evening such a success. “After eight years in the role, it is a privilege to stand here one last time. When I arrived, I hoped to leave the trust stronger than I found it, and I am incredibly proud of what we have achieved together: improved services, better performance, a more positive culture, and an organisation people genuinely want to join. None of that happens without you.
“To our finalists, our winners, and every colleague who was nominated: hearing your stories, seeing your resilience and experiencing your kindness have been one of the greatest privileges of my working life. On behalf of the Trust Board, congratulations to all of you.”
Jayne Black, Chief Executive, added: “Every day, I see the dedication, compassion and professionalism that define our trust, and witness first-hand the commitment you bring to delivering the very best care and support for our patients and for one another.
Tonight has been a truly special celebration of our people. We have heard inspiring stories of colleagues and teams who have gone above and beyond, demonstrating excellence, innovation and compassion in everything they do. Their achievements reflect the very best of our trust and the values we share.
I am incredibly proud to lead this organisation and to work alongside such talented and committed colleagues. Congratulations to all our finalists, winners and nominees. Thank you for everything you do for our patients, our communities and each other.”
The Trust Awards continue to provide a powerful reminder of the incredible people who work across our organisation and the difference they make every day for patients, colleagues and our communities.