The hard-working heroes who keep the NHS running if often unsung ways have been recognised today, as 24 regional “health heroes” are named in the Our Health Heroes awards.
The public will now be asked to vote for the national winners in two categories: operational services worker of the year and clinical support worker of the year.
The awards to recognise the valuable contribution of support workers have been jointly organised by Skills for Health, the National Skills Academy for Health and UNISON.
The 24 regional winners – one in each category from each of the union’s 12 regions were selected by judges from more than 500 entries, nominated by colleagues.
Congratulating the regional winners, UNISON head of health Christina McAnea said: “We were overwhelmed with the number of responses we received for the first ever Our Health Heroes Awards.
“It was nothing short of heart warming to see over 500 NHS support staff nominated by their colleagues, managers and branches.
“Story after story demonstrates the commitment and dedication of these often-overlooked groups of staff – from inspirational porters to care assistants going above and beyond their duties.
“Every single one of them deserves to be recognised for their valuable contribution – be part of this wonderful event by voting for the overall winner.”
You can read about the 12 finalists in each category, and vote for your choice, at www.skillsforhealth.org.uk/ohh-awards.
Short videos on each of the nominees can also be found on YouTube at youtube.com/user/skillsforhealth1/.
