Local health and social care staff shine in the spotlight
Published: 8 May 2017
Outstanding staff and volunteers from across Torbay and South Devon health and social care services have been recognised at an awards ceremony celebrating their hard work and dedication.
The Torbay and South Devon NHS Foundation Trust ‘Blue Shield’ awards ceremony took place on Wednesday 3 May, recognising individuals or groups whose energy, commitment and dedication is making a real difference to people who receive health and social care and to staff who work in the Trust.
Staff, volunteers and their guests attended the event, which was held at Torbay Hospital. Nominations are made anonymously, by members of the public and by staff, and were judged by a panel of experts and independent members.
This year there were eight categories for the awards, and nine ‘Gold’, seven ‘Silver’ and five ‘Bronze’ award winners as well as two special award winners. Awards were made for individual, team, partnership, innovation and volunteer excellence, and a special ‘Em Jeffries’ award for lifetime achievement. Awards were also presented to our Carers, including an individual and two team winners. Certificates were presented by members of the Trust’s Executive Team including Mairead McAlinden (Chief Executive) and Sir Richard Ibbotson (Chairman).
Mairead McAlinden, Chief Executive of Torbay and South Devon NHS Foundation Trust, said: “Health and social care is facing many challenges and all our staff and volunteers work incredibly hard to provide excellent care. People really appreciate a simple ‘thank you’ and I receive many letters of appreciation which mean so much to staff. So every year we make a special effort to say a very public ‘thank you’ to those people who are doing exceptional work – these awards are our way of recognising those staff and volunteers who make a real difference to the people who use our services or to the staff they support. Sharing their stories and hearing what they achieve is inspirational and truly heart-warming, and I was very proud to be part of this event.
“We received so many nominations and everyone deserves to be recognised for their hard work and commitment to great care. A special ‘thank you’ to their sponsors too, for making the time and effort to nominate them.”
Sir Richard Ibbotson, Chairman of Torbay and South Devon NHS Foundation Trust, said: “I am privileged that my role permits me to go out and about and meet staff from across the Trust. It really is an honour to work with people who are so enthusiastic and committed to providing high quality health and social care to the people of Torbay and South Devon.
“I would like to congratulate everyone who received an award at this year’s ceremony, as well as all those who were nominated. The Blue Shield Awards are one of the ways we recognise our staff and volunteers and acknowledge the positive impact they make on the lives of local people.”
See photos of some of the winners below:
