On Thursday 20 November, the People First Recognition Awards Annual Ceremony was held at Colwick Hall, Nottingham. Hosted by Emma Caldwell, local Radio and TV Presenter, 370+ staff members, sponsors and guests attended a wonderful evening to celebrate the achievements of everyone shortlisted for the awards this year, and to see who would be announced the winner in each of the 13 award categories.
You can view a video of the full awards evening here.
Andy has raised countless funds over many years for Nottingham Hospitals Charity through personal challenges, including a 500-mile cycle around Kidney Lake. He is also leading a campaign to raise £40,000 for the children's kidney unit’s 40th anniversary, inspiring staff and patients to join in. His continuous efforts greatly support the Charity and patients through their diagnosis and treatment.
Eve quickly became essential to the Endocrine Surgery service, stepping up to take on demanding roles within 18 months of joining the team. She has mastered challenging tasks, improved patient flow, and reduced waiting times. Her positive attitude, support for colleagues, and patient-focused approach make her a valued team member. She is the backbone behind the smooth running of this highly specialised surgical service.
Andy has created a digital patient storytelling platform that advances inclusion across the Trust. His vision ensures that all patients - regardless of background or communication needs, can safely and respectfully share their experiences. Andy has empowered voices from marginalised communities and embedded collaboration at every step. His initiative is a powerful tool for change, that gives every patient the chance to be seen, heard, and make a difference.
To reduce rising reattendance rates, a digital follow-up pathway was developed and piloted by the General Surgery Team to improve patient experience, detect complications early, and reduce emergency visits. The goal was to improve outcomes, reduce reattendances, and deliver patient-focused digital care, all of which have been achieved - resulting in a safe, efficient, and scalable model for post-op care.
Sue is a compassionate leader and role model to many. She leads from the front in supporting her team to deliver sexual health across Nottinghamshire. She goes above and beyond for patients and staff, sharing her knowledge with kindness and motivating others. Respected across all teams, Sue leads with fairness, professionalism, and a “we’ll make it work” attitude. Her inspirational qualities, warmth, and tireless commitment deserved to be recognised.
Liz has dedicated over 35 years to paediatrics in Nottingham where she has played a vital role in shaping children's health services. Nottingham pioneered community paediatric services for children with Down Syndrome 40 years ago, something Liz was instrumental in developing and has since become a national expert in. Liz has supported countless children and families with a wide range of conditions with her compassionate and expert care.
The Security Team is a vital part of the organisation, ensuring the safety of everyone on site and enabling daily operations. Their commitment to patient and staff safety, patient care, reassurance, and creating a calm environment is central to their work. Over the past two years, the team’s progress and dedication - balancing high-pressure responses including severe incidents and tragic events - with routine duties, have been truly commendable.
The Pharmacy Medicines Finance Team has delivered exceptional results through collaboration across pharmacy, clinical teams, and the ICB. By driving initiatives on high-cost medicines and procurement, they’ve embedded financial stewardship into multidisciplinary care and enabled huge savings for NUH and the wider system. Their commitment to partnership, innovation, and patient-focused financial strategy is truly deserving of recognition.
Hannah coordinates and manages complex neuroendocrine tumour (NET) patients across the East Midlands, bridging multiple specialties with knowledge, warmth, and compassion. Hannah independently founded a successful NET patient support group and is passionate about improving care through education and research. Patients adore and trust her completely and she is always taking time to check up on them and their families.
The Children’s Renal Team were nominated by a father for the amazing care they have provided to his son over the last 18 years and their clinical brilliance, shared passion and endless kindness, care and empathy within the fantastic family environment they have created for all patients and their families.
In under four years, Liz has become an essential Paediatric ENT nurse, deeply impacting patients, families, and the team. She has mastered advanced skills, strengthened the service during a crisis and transformed tracheostomy care through training and life support. Beyond her clinical excellence, she supports colleagues and reassures families with compassion. Liz’s talent and dedication made her an exceptional nominee.
Margaret has volunteered at NUH for 19 years and currently helps as a Meet and Greet volunteer two days a week. Known for her warm smile and endless supply of sweets, she recently celebrated her 90th birthday and remains as dedicated as ever. Margaret is a wealth of knowledge, familiar with staff, departments and patients, and is always ready to assist anyone in need.
At 81, Bryant is the embodiment of kindness and dedication. Though his role is behind the scenes, his impact is deeply felt. His unwavering commitment ensures smooth operations, but it's his warmth, generosity, and positive spirit that truly set him apart. Whether offering a kind word, or going the extra mile, Bryant uplifts everyone around him. After over 40 years of quiet, selfless service, Bryant’s commitment made him truly deserving of recognition.