Local Staff Awards 2025

Overall Winner Nominees

Team of the Year

Same Day Admission Unit (SDAU) RAH

The SDAU team works collaboratively to ensure patients are at the forefront of everything they do, deliver the best care, avoid delays for theatres, and provide support to other services.

SDAU is a Monday to Friday elective surgery unit, comprising 14 trolleys and 2 chair establishment.  At present the unit is open 24 hours per day, 7 days per week due to bed challenges on-site.

The team’s responsiveness was evident when the unit accommodated eight patients each night throughout January, supporting the hospital by easing pressure on wards to allow flow, and enabling surgeries to continue despite service challenges.

Employee of the Year

Megan Shand, Assistant Management Accountant, Finance

Megan has been a huge support for the Older People and Stroke Services team, working closely with the Clinical Service Managers and Lead Nurses to assist the directorate. She has a fantastic understanding of the services and proactively queries aspects with the team.

Megan has supported new team members in learning how to manage budgets and analyse reports, and this has contributed significantly to building financial knowledge and confidence within the team.

Leader of the Year

Dr Gautam Ray, Consultant Physician, Acute Medicine, RAH

Gautam was instrumental in setting up the Quality Improvement Den at the RAH in 2018. This opportunity has now been expanded to support colleagues across the Clyde sector.

The Den provides assistance and guidance for colleagues to pursue QI projects across a wide range of services, resulting in a skilled workforce and valuable improvements to patient care.

Cohort 7 is now underway, and over the years since the Den commenced, in excess of 127 colleagues have participated in it, delivering a broad range of improvement projects and encouraging a culture of continuous improvement across Clyde sector.

Innovation of the Year

The Apple Clinic : Pre-habilitation & Rehabilitation for cancer and surgical patients  (Mhairi Burke & Elaine Crookston, Physio, IRH)

The Service was expanded to IRH in Dec 2023, enabling a sector-wide approach for Pre-habilitation.  During the past year, this has extended to include a Rehabilitation phase post-surgery and during other cancer treatments. In addition, a pilot model was introduced to educate family members on how to support their loved ones

The Clinic is a sustainable model, embedding research, and engaging nursing and AHPs trained in exercise, health advice, cognitive behavioural therapy. This approach has reduced complications, shortened hospital stays, improved post-surgical recovery. The initial clinic has supported 50-60 IRH patients and families. IRH is the only site now consistently delivering prehab/rehab in West of Scotland Cancer Network.

Volunteer of the Year

David Roy, AHP Rehab Support Volunteer & Rainbow Garden Volunteer, IRH

David’s primary role is as a Rehabilitation Support Volunteer, working on a weekly basis on the Stroke ward at the IRH Larkfield Unit.

He works alongside the AHP team, supporting patients to enhance their mobility and recovery. In addition, David provides companionship and support, to help promote patient’s mental health and well-being.

David is also a volunteer member of the Rainbow Garden, where he helps keep this valuable therapeutic outdoor space clean and tidy alongside his fellow volunteers.

The unwavering support and encouragement David provides in both his roles is hugely appreciated by patients and colleagues alike.

Overall Winner Nominees

Team of the Year

North Frailty Team

The North Frailty Team is a multidisciplinary group dedicated to improving care for older adults with frailty. Working alongside ED and AAU, they streamline patients to a specialist unit for timely Comprehensive Geriatric Assessments (CGA). Their innovative pathway has reduced the median length of stay from 16 to 11 days without increasing readmission rates. They introduced a CGA Huddle, integrating community teams to support early discharge.

Their commitment to person-centered care, collaboration, and overcoming resistance to change has enhanced hospital flow and patient outcomes. Patient feedback highlights their compassionate and high-quality approach, demonstrating that getting care right for older adults benefits everyone. Their dedication and teamwork make them truly deserving of this award.

Employee of the Year

Trisha Cairney, Health Care Support Worker

Tricia, a Health Care Support Worker at Ward 43 (Cardiology) in the Glasgow Royal Infirmary, goes above and beyond in patient care and ward support. Despite the demands of a busy cardiology unit, she takes on additional responsibilities, including clinical audits, ordering resources, organising repairs, and infection control checks.

Her contributions have significantly improved ward performance in external audits. Tricia’s kindness and compassion make her a favourite among patients, bringing joy in their most difficult moments. A true team player, she supports colleagues selflessly and enhances the ward’s daily operations. Her dedication, quality, and teamwork embody NHSGGC’s values, making her an outstanding role model and a truly deserving award winner.

Leader of the Year

Evelyn Taylor, Specialist Occupational Therapist

Evelyn has been a dedicated and integral member of the Occupational Therapy and AHP team at Glasgow Royal Infirmary for over a decade. A skilled practitioner and mentor, she supports staff development and has driven service improvements, particularly in Anxiety Management for COPD patients. Her work has reduced hospital admissions and facilitated complex discharges, empowering patients to manage their conditions.

Evelyn’s leadership, mentorship, and innovative approach have strengthened the OT service, earning her widespread respect. Her compassion, calmness, and unwavering support for colleagues make her a role model. Despite not holding a formal leadership role, her leadership influence is profound, shaping patient care and team development. Evelyn’s dedication, kindness, and professionalism make her a truly deserving award recipient.

Innovation of the Year

Elisabeth Waterhouse and Denise Carrigan – Practice Development Adult Acute Dietetics

The Dietetics team addressed recruitment challenges by redesigning the interview process to improve accessibility, inclusivity, and candidate experience. They introduced an online ‘meet and greet’ after work hours and provided support around interview questions, reducing candidate anxiety and improving response quality. Feedback from three interview cycles was overwhelmingly positive, with applicants feeling more supported and engaged.

Applications tripled, with a reserve list established to streamline future hiring. The initiative promotes dignity, respect, and neurodiversity while strengthening workforce planning. Recognised as best practice, this innovative approach has been shared across the AHP community, ensuring a more diverse, prepared, and sustainable workforce.

Volunteer of the Year

Lou Murphy, PA to the GM for Medical Specialties North Sector

Lou has been a key participant of the North Civility Saves Lives group, working to improve workplace relationships by promoting civil, caring, and compassionate interactions. She has facilitated focused awareness raising sessions across various departments, including meetings with consultants, junior doctors, and administrative teams. Her sessions encourage staff to reflect on their own behaviours and the impact of rudeness in the workplace.

Lou’s proactive efforts have been met with positive feedback, as she fosters discussions on promoting civility and reducing incivility. Her work exemplifies the values of dignity, respect, openness, and responsibility, contributing significantly to continuing to make the North and NHSGGC a better place to work.

Overall Winner Nominees

Team of the Year

Surgical Immediate Assessment Unit (IAU) , QEUH

The department is staffed by a combination of Healthcare Support Workers (HCSWs), Band 5 nurses, and Surgical Nurse Practitioners, with additional support from Advanced Nurse Practitioners (ANPs) and medical staff. This team works tirelessly to assess and implement the care needs of patients referred for surgical assessment by their GPs. They typically see a range of 730 to 750 patients per month and successfully discharge nearly half of them within four hours. Most discharges from the department occur between four and eight hours after arrival.

The team also runs Hot Clinics to ensure that patients do not remain in the hospital longer than necessary. If further tests are required, they arrange for patients to return for those procedures.

This exceptionally hardworking team deserves recognition for their contributions to unscheduled care.

Patient experience is significantly improved as most patients are seen within the four-hour target. Additionally, discharging patients to Hot Clinic slots reduces unnecessary waiting times for tests in an already busy department. This ensures that results can be discussed quickly after testing, allowing for effective further care planning.

The team is focused and driven, placing patients’ safety and well-being as their top priority.

Employee of the Year

Claire Westland (SCN) and Heather Bingham (SCN), Ward 7A , QEUH

Heather and Claire created an inhaler education station in the ward, which they updated monthly. They provided resources, quizzes, stickers, and QR codes for further learning. They collaborated with Respiratory Clinical Nurse Specialists (CNSs) and representatives to ensure they shared best practices and organised education days for the ward staff.

This initiative served as an excellent resource for the staff. In recent years, the variety of inhalers has increased significantly, and due to COVID-19 and staffing shortages, accessible education has been limited. Their educational resources offered a quick and convenient way to enhance staff knowledge. It was also shared with other respiratory wards and received a positive response.

Overall, this work improved patient care by enhancing staff understanding of inhalers, their functions, and proper inhaler techniques. This ultimately led to better administration for patients and increased understanding and usage, thus improving health outcomes.

Leader of the Year

Laura Campbell, SCN, Ward 8A, QEUH

Laura is a senior charge nurse on Ward 8A at QEUH, an acute care ward for older patients. She has demonstrated excellent leadership skills and a strong commitment to quality improvement within the ward, particularly regarding staff morale, infection control, and the overall standards of patient care.

After transferring from another area, Laura took the initiative to promote a more positive working environment, which led to improved audit scores and enhanced infection control standards. Her ability to enhance staff morale and motivation, as well as care and infection control standards, has been remarkable.

Laura’s dedication to the Older People’s Services Support team is evident each day and she has worked tirelessly to make significant improvements.

Innovation of the Year

Gill Reader, SCN, Acute Receiving Unit 5, QEUH

Gill led the development of the GGC: 322 Philips Cardiac Monitoring and Basic Rhythm Interpretation module, which is now a part of the LearnPro training platform.

This new module is designed to enhance staff training and education for caring for patients who require monitoring.

Gill also provided training in these essential skills, which will support staff in delivering quality care. The module is beneficial for staff development, allowing them to enhance their existing skills and learn new ones. It is now available organisation-wide on LearnPro, making it accessible to all staff. This resource is transferable to any department that requires ECG monitoring, representing a valuable opportunity for professional development and learning across all teams.

Overall Winner Nominees

Employee of the Year

Jason Crooks, Operational Services Manager, Diagnostic Imaging

Jason, is an extremely hard working and experienced administration manager who took up his post of Operational Services Manager in December 2023.

Jason has over the last year made significant changes to ensure our performance monitoring and data is accurate. to support this he has developed a number of dashboards and systems to support the whole imaging team manage performance accurately. For example:  Cancer tracking dashboard, Reporting discrepancy dashboard, a new share point site for imaging, Methods to meticulously manage Access and cancer funds.

Team of the Year

Radionuclide Dispensary

The Radionuclide Dispensary (RND) manufactures radiopharmaceutical medicines for Nuclear Medicine Departments across five Health Boards covering 60% of the Scottish patient population.

The current RND facility is isolated on the former Western Infirmary General site in Glasgow. It has continued to operate through demolition of the WIG and the redevelopment of Glasgow University. The facility, while supported remotely, remains isolated.

The building has significant operational and logistical challenges and is unable to support necessary changes in technology and equipment.

The MHRA has a focus on the service, with bi-monthly scrutiny.

There is an immense amount of pressure on the RND team to deliver a safe daily service to patients on a cancer pathway. For almost 10 years they have continued to manufacture and deliver radiopharmaceuticals to approximately 40,000 patients per year. In the most difficult of conditions, in the middle of a building site, managing a highly specialised service.

Regardless of the many challenges they have faced over this time, the team has delivered a safe patient service.

Leader of the Year (Joint Winners)

Andrew Reilly, Scientific Director

Andrew has integrated the clinical scientific service (DCPB) providing patient care for patients across the West of Scotland.

He has raised the profile of health care science both at local level and at National level.He advises the CMO as a Clinical Physics expert and is the IPEM Vice President Scotland, giving his energy to demonstrating the importance of health care science in patient care.

Despite being pulled in many directions Andrew always makes time for staff. He is welcoming and supportive, staff have direct access to him, giving freely of his time and wisdom in a kind and caring way.Focused and innovative, stimulating discussion opening the door to new ideas. He is very clear that no idea is a bad idea.

Over the last 18 months Andrew has supported the two areas where there has been no head of service – Radiotherapy Physics and Nuclear Medicine ensuring the clinical service was supported.He also lead the Radionuclide Dispensary and PET Production through pressurised MHRA and HSE inspections, supporting the whole way.

Andrew did all of this while recovering from an illness part way through the year. Many folk were not aware of this.His dedication and commitment to staff and patients is incredible always putting others first.

Nicola Wyllie, Senior Charge Nurse

Nicola is a patient focused Clinical Nurse Specialist who has been heavily involved with the Corporate Practice Development team and has developed educational videos on the care and maintenance of individual indwelling vascular devices these are now available on You Tube video to assist with the education and training of Nursing and medical staff across the NHSGGC health board.

In addition a competency framework is being developed for all staff who access specific vascular devices for administration of IV therapies. This competency framework will provide assurance that staff are appropriately skilled in the care and maintenance of vascular devices and ensure patients have the best care possible.

Innovation of the Year

Toxicology & Theraputic Drug Monitoring Service

Scottish drug-related deaths statistics show that drug misuse continues to be a significant problem. This has a direct impact on healthcare, including patients seeking help for drug use in primary care and hospital admissions across NHSGGC.

The Glasgow City Alcohol and Drug Partnership approached the QEUH Toxicology Team to discuss modernising drug screening; specifically, requesting an ability to detect a wider range of drugs.

As no commercial test kit was available to cover the range of drugs required, the Toxicology team developed a novel drug screen designed for local service users’ needs which was instrumental in the fight against drug-related deaths.  Their innovation was a direct result of their ability to harness their collective brain power, knowledge, skills and experience to produce a transformative solution that benefited patients. The epitome of teamwork!

To date, over 14,000 patient samples have been screened using this test. A recent survey showed that service users agree that the extended screen they have developed has significantly improved patient management and had a positive impact on the population.

Overall Winner Nominees

Innovation of the Year

Community Health and Care Services – Community Treatment and Care Service (CTAC) Team 

The CTAC Team have been fundamental in the roll out of the programme for self-administration of B12 injections and have taught around 160 patients to take ownership of their long term condition. These patients have found that they have more independence and can receive their medication at a time that is more appropriate for them, or they can have a friend or family member administer it once they’ve been taught by CTAC staff. The aim of this innovation is to encourage patients to take over this aspect of their care and using values based conversations have given the patients independence and flexibility. These appointments will now be absorbed by the service and realigned to patients for other interventions or for those who are unable to self-administer. 

Innovation of the Year

Tier 4 Child and Adolescent Mental Health Services (CAMHS) – Trauma Training Team

Clinicians across Tier 4 who were trained as trainers for the CAMHS NES Trauma Training package, and helped roll out this training across Tier 4 CAMHS as part of the CAMHS Pilot. Helped Tier 4 CAMHS services think about their practise and work towards becoming trauma informed services. Clinicians gave their time over 2 years to deliver the CAMHS NES Trauma Training package to all clinicians in Tier 4 CAMHS and deliver Sowing Seeds workshops to Business Support staff across Tier 4 and Hosted CAMHS services, as part of the CAMHS Pilot of this roll-out. In addition clinicians met with all Tier 4 CAMHS services to complete the Trauma Lens tool to help them think about their practise and develop a plan to further develop trauma informed practise in their services looking at: Choice, Collaboration, Safety, Trust and Empowerment. This was then reviewed with each services at the 2 year mark to evaluate the pilot and to help services develop a further plan to continue moving forward with trauma informed thinking and practise. Staff also provided Trauma Thinking Space groups for Tier 4 staff to allow for protected space to think about changes they might want to make and share practise across Tier 4. Clinicians adapted the NES Trauma Training Package, with approval and sign off from NES, to create a 1 day package to better meet the training needs of our inpatient staff and to allow for easier roll out when having to consider shift working. Clinicians supported senior staff to complete the Trauma Quality Improvement Framework to help thinking more widely about trauma informed practise. Considering HR policy, recruitment and wider service consideration such as paperwork, record keeping, standardised letters etc. All this was only possible due to the amazing support from Business Support in regards to keeping track of who attended training, printing out training packages and ensuring training days were well organised. 

Innovation of the Year

Oral Health Directorate Lifelong Smiles Programme  

This was an initiative designed to improve patient attendance at dental service appointments and increase the number of patients opting for alternatives to general anaesthesia. 

This was a collaborative effort between the Public Dental Service, Children and Families, and Oral Health Improvement Teams aims to enhance both patient and staff experiences while reducing appointment waiting times. 

Supported by Q Exchange funding the following was developed – Training for dental health support workers:  

A new training package has been developed to educate young people and families about various treatment options.  

This training includes practical elements and focuses on enhancing transferable skills such as active listening and collaborative decision-making with families. 

Innovative information resources:  To reduce dental anxiety and improve engagement, a package of information has been created for young people and families. This includes a series of four videos accompanied by written information, designed to prepare children and their parents or guardians for dental examinations, x-rays, and inhalation sedation. 

Improved access and engagement: Families benefited from interactive sessions with team members at health centres, making it easier for them to access the care they need. 

Overall Winner Nominees

Team of the Year

Community Treatment and Care service

This nurse-led team deliver a range of services including ear care and wound care management.  

The team are tasked to provide support to GP Practices, and to help reduce treatment waiting times for patients.

As part of this, they came up with an innovative new phlebotomy service called ‘Bloods and Go’.

The service operates in both Eastwood and Barrhead Health Centre and all 15 GPs in the authority can refer in. Since it launched in mid-June 2024, the service has taken bloods from over 10,000 patients and reduced waiting times for blood tests from days to just minutes!

Employee of the Year

Marion Evans

Marion is the one and only Business Support staff member for the very busy Community Mental Health Team.

She manages a varied workload in a fast-paced environment, looking after all business support needs for the service. Marion is exceptionally skilled and compassionate with service users, who often present in stress and distress.

Nothing is too much trouble for Marion, despite how busy she is. She is often approached by colleagues in other teams for help and she will always go above and beyond, without hesitation, to support them or offer advice.

Leader of the Year

Andrew Cuthbertson, Team Manager, Learning Disability Team

The LD team comprises a range of professions including social work, nursing, psychiatry, speech and language therapy, occupational therapy, physiotherapy, psychology and health care support workers.

Andrew has overall responsibility for the team, meaning he manages both Council and NHS staff, and this does require a specific skill set to ensure that the team works as one.

Andrew leads by example. His own passion, core values, calmness, positivity, integrity, work ethic and good humour are some of the attributes that make him an outstanding leader.

He is highly regarded and respected by colleagues, providers and the people we support.

Innovation of the Year

Fiona Gibson, Laura Herron and Amy Loveday 

Occupational Therapist Fiona Gibson, Nurse Laura Herron and Assistant Practitioner Amy Loveday sit within the Older Person Mental Health Team and have been focused on stress and distress reduction in care homes.

Their integrated approach makes them the only team of its kind in GGC. Their innovative approach has:

• Reduced the number of referrals and discharges within care home liaison service by 50%
• Achieved a 50% reduction in the number of care residents with dementia on antipsychotic medication
• Provided training to 101 care home staff 
• Prevented 14 care home placement breakdowns
• Prevented 9 psychiatric admissions
• Significantly reduced duty contact

Volunteer of the Year

Aileen Kane

Aileen has been fundraising for four decades. She starting with baking and selling cakes to her neighbours and over the years, her efforts have grown to include unique and joyful activities, such as walking with her family in tutus to raise funds.

She is also a walk leader, supporting people to get out and about. She has created a close-knit, supportive community and makes everyone feel welcome. For the past three years, she has organised a special Children in Need walk at Rouken Glen park, featuring memorable elements like a piper and a choir.

Going the Extra Mile

Mark Mulhern and Noleen McCormick

The duo won this award for continuously going the extra mile in their roles, displaying a positive can-do attitude and for regularly stepping outside their roles and responsibilities to support individuals, the health and social care workforce, and a wide range of partners across East Renfrewshire.

Mark is our Carers Lead and Noleen the HSCP Self Directed Support Implementation Manager and they have very busy day jobs.

Over the last 18 months, in addition to their substantive posts, Noleen and Mark have stepped up to support the Partnership with internal and external engagement, making a significant difference to our communities.

Wellbeing Champion

Claire Blair, Health Improvement Lead – Mental Health & Recovery 

Claire is the ultimate champion for highlighting, advocating and supporting the health and wellbeing of the entire health and social care workforce.

Her kind, person-centred and empathetic personality helps bring people together. Claire has supported many colleagues through difficult times by being a listening ear, and sharing wisdom.

She also work in partnership with a number of organisations to support the delivery of wellbeing supports.

All of the judges were impressed by Claire’s ability to lead by example. She prioritises her own health and wellbeing, remaining resilient and positive, practices self-care, and makes use of wellbeing activities and resources.

Outstanding Contribution Award

Anne Marie Kennedy, MBE

At 86 years young, Anne Marie makes a substantial impact on people’s lives, volunteering a significant amount of her time, energy, knowledge and personality in supporting a wide range of individuals and services.

She shares her voice, opinion, and lived experience, alongside advocating for those who may not have the opportunity to do so.

She is the Chair of local charity, the wee red bus service, which transported 2145 residents to medical appointments in 2024 – that’s 4290 single journeys made by volunteer drivers.

Each year she organises a special volunteer celebration event and she is truly one of a kind.

Chief Officers Award

The Community Rehabilitation Service 

The service demonstrates that fully integrated health and social care services create better outcomes for the people we support, and efficiencies.

This multidisciplinary team provide exceptional care, strive for excellence and are forward-thinking. They are also the only fully integrated service of its kind across NHSGGC.

Referrals have increased by 80% over the past six years and they have adapted to be able to manage this increased workload, and have modified their service to be able to meet the needs of our ageing population.

They’ve been central to the HSCP’s approach to reduce the number of avoidable hospital admissions.

Overall Winner Nominees

Team Of The Year

eHealth and Clinical Teams involved in Ophthalmology Digital Patient Record

Commissioned by Scottish Government and in collaboration with clinical representatives from all Health Boards, eHealth National and Contractor Services, Information Management, Electronic Patient Record and Health Records teams worked together to develop and successfully implement the Ophthalmology Digital Patient Record and system.

This has been implemented across all NHSGGC Ophthalmology sites to connect primary and secondary eye care and enable transfer of patients between health boards. With the introduction of OpenEyes to NES Glaucoma Accredited Trained Community Optometrists, 749 patients have had their follow up care transferred to an Optometrist Practice near to their home.

Employee Of The Year

Alan Walker

Alan led and supported the testing and implementation of safer medicines projects including HEPMA and Pharmacy Stock Management (PSM). These are highly complex projects requiring extensive testing to ensure clinical and patient safety ahead of roll out. Alan has been commended for his approach and onsite support to clinical services through the implementations and embedding in business-as-usual practice.

Leader Of The Year

Lin Calderwood

Lin led key NHSGGC and national programmes of work including Ophthalmology Digital Patient Record and ANIA Digital Dermatology culminating in NHSGGC being the first Board to adopt both applications. Working with eHealth, clinical and wider ophthalmology service colleagues Lin led a positive and cohesive approach throughout.

Innovation Of The Year

eHealth Electronic Patient Record and Practice Development Nursing Teams

The collaborative effort of eHealth teams working closely with frontline staff to design and build patient centred nursing documentation tools within TrakCare. This project resulted in the completion of the nursing admission record, selection of risk assessments and a patient centred care plan. This reduces paper/scanning, supports audit activity and meets Healthcare Improvement Scotland (HIS) recommendations.

Overall Winner Nominees

Team of the Year

Facilities Training Team

The Facilities Training Team has demonstrated exceptional dedication and teamwork, earning them the title of Team of the Year. This team has revolutionised the induction process for new facilities staff within GG&C by developing a comprehensive Corporate Facilities Induction Programme. Their innovative approach ensures that all new staff undergo a centralized three-day induction, covering essential policies, procedures, and mandatory training modules as well as delivering effective, practical training that will help them settle in their new roles. This program not only equips new employees with the necessary skills and knowledge but also provides a supportive environment for them to address any concerns before starting their roles as well as giving them a qualification they can use in future.

The team’s collaborative efforts have significantly improved the recruitment and onboarding process, ensuring consistency and high standards across the operational departments. Their commitment to enhancing the experience and skills of new employees has had a profound impact on the organisation. By working together and supporting each other, the Facilities Training Team has set a benchmark for excellence, making a lasting difference for both staff and patients.

Employee of the Year

Gerry Mather

Gerry Mather, a Project Manager within the Property & Capital Planning team, has been instrumental in ensuring the successful relocation of services from WGACH. He has been the primary contact for contractors refurbishing new locations, demonstrating excellent communication, negotiation, and persuasive skills. Gerry’s ability to maintain strong relationships with service leads and include all service and clinical requirements has been commendable.

Known for his calm demeanour and can-do attitude, Gerry is always ready to deliver a smile and tackle multiple tasks simultaneously. His dedication and positive approach have made him an invaluable asset to the department. As he retires at the end of March, this award would be a fitting tribute to his contributions. Gerry has also mentored junior project managers, sharing his wealth of experience and ensuring the continued success of the team. His efforts have significantly benefited patients and staff through improved facilities and service delivery.

Leader of the Year

Fiona Warnock-Greer

Fiona Warnock Greer, a Senior Project Manager within the Capital Planning team, has exemplified outstanding leadership through her management of the Parkhead Hub project, the largest primary care facility in the UK. Fiona’s dedication and teamwork have been instrumental in ensuring the project’s success, collaborating closely with diverse stakeholders, including HSCP, clinical areas, estates, facilities, design teams, contractors, and NHS Assure. Her leadership was particularly evident during the commissioning of the water system, where she established a short-life working group to ensure the highest standards were met. Fiona’s ability to navigate complex challenges, maintain clear communication, and foster a collaborative environment has been crucial in delivering a safe and functional facility.

Her proactive approach and commitment to excellence have earned her the respect and admiration of her colleagues. Fiona’s leadership has not only ensured the successful completion of the Parkhead Hub but also set a benchmark for future projects within the organisation.

Innovation of the Year

Brian Droy

Brian Droy, a CAD Operator within Operational Estates, has demonstrated exceptional innovation through his development of two critical pieces of equipment. Utilising his CAD skills, Brian designed an En-Suite emergency unlock tool for bathrooms and a transport cage for robots in the QEUH basement. These innovations have significantly supported both clinical and portering staff. The emergency unlock tool is particularly noteworthy, as it is being considered by other boards for its potential to provide immediate support to clinical colleagues during emergencies.

Brian’s proactive approach and ability to identify and address practical needs have made a substantial impact on operational efficiency and safety. His dedication to improving service delivery through innovative solutions exemplifies the spirit of the Innovation of the Year award. Brian’s contributions have not only enhanced the functionality of existing systems but also set a benchmark for future innovations within the organisation.

Overall Winner Nominees

Team of the Year – Joint Winners

Payroll Team

Working above capacity to sustain services while delivering key additional activities, including multiple retrospective pay awards, new pension regulations, increased pension applications, partial retirement provisions, system updates, and controls from the Reduced Working Week.

SSTS

Ensuring no impacts on SSTS service provision, including increased activity from Reduced Working Week updates, while integrating the new eRostering system to normal business. This includes supporting early adopters, initial rollout and support at the IRH site, piloting medics at QEUH ED, and supporting the HIS pilot of Safe Care for Adult Mental Health Inpatient areas.

Employee of the Year

Evelyn McIntyre

Evelyn has been extremely supportive to both the Management accounts team and the Sector management teams in a challenging year that has seen various changes in staffing as well pressures from gaps in sickness and vacancies.

Throughout the period of change Evelyn has maintained a professional approach and mentored junior staff members in their learning, advised management staff on a variety of issues, and maintained a high quality of service to key stakeholders. Evelyn continues help to shape the service of the management accounts function to meet the needs of the organisation.

Leader of the Year

Stuart McDade

Stuart has been pivotal in redesigning Ward Product Management (Stores) services at QEUH in 2023 onwards, focusing on ward layouts and stock cataloguing. Since April 2024, Stuart’s team completed stock reviews in 29 wards and improved the National Distribution Service (NDS) cage return process.

His leadership in training staff with new SOPs and training manuals has boosted team morale and performance. The Ward Product Management service at QEUH was recognised by the NSS Genesis team as one of the top 3 in Scotland.

Innovation of the Year

Joe Marr

Joe has shown exceptional dedication to his role at the Procurement Central Store (Dava St), particularly in 2024. He played a crucial role in the warehouse redesign, improving communication, simplifying processes, and enhancing governance by implementing signatures for goods over £1,000. 

Joe’s efforts in updating the logistics schedule for QEUH have significantly improved the efficiency of inbound and outbound goods movement, providing clear guidance on delivery expectations. This project has freed up time for the Transport Team, allowing for better contingency planning and service readiness. Additionally, Joe has developed Procurement System SOPs for staff and consistently engages with management and other services to seek improvement ideas.

Overall Winner Nominees

Team of the Year

Glasgow City HSCP Property Team

The Glasgow City HSCP Property Team has been recognised as Team of the Year for their outstanding delivery of the Parkhead Hub Project—the first project of its size and type within the HSCP. Despite competing demands, the team successfully engaged with Glasgow City Council, NHS Services, and key stakeholders to bring this vital facility to life.

Navigating challenges such as the NHS Assure process and a complex procurement landscape, they have worked tirelessly to ensure compliance and operational efficiency. Their dedication and teamwork have resulted in a transformational community space, including a library, café, and facilities for local groups, benefiting both HSCP services and the people of Glasgow.

Their commitment and resilience make them truly deserving of this award.

Employee of the Year

Liam Logue

Liam was nominated by his entire team for his consistent dedication and positive impact on his team. As a Social Care Worker for Housing First, Liam demonstrates a bright, supportive attitude, going above and beyond for both colleagues and service users.

Focussed on equality and high service standards, Liam has built trust with long-term homeless individuals, helping them navigate complex needs and engage with services. His personal kindness and proactive efforts, from sourcing clothing to providing gifts, make him an exceptional team member.

Liam’s commitment extends beyond his full-time role—he volunteers with a homelessness organisation, supporting the homeless and rough sleepers every Sunday. He actively encourages collaboration between the group and HSCP, bringing valuable insights to his work.

Leader of the Year

Pauline Ward

Pauline Ward has proven herself to be an exemplary leader within the Care Home Advanced Nurse Practitioner (ANP) Team, earning the Leader of the Year award for her exceptional leadership over just 18 months.

Pauline has redefined her team’s structure, raised care standards, and fostered a culture of collaboration. Her empathetic approach has maintained team morale during difficult times, demonstrating the true qualities of a leader who cares about the wellbeing of her colleagues.

Beyond immediate challenges, Pauline has cultivated a focus on continuous improvement, ensuring the team consistently exceeds care standards. Her leadership has had a lasting impact, improving communication, collaboration, and patient outcomes across the HSCP, solidifying the ANP Team’s reputation for excellence.

Innovation of the Year

The Thistle Project Team

The Thistle Project Team has been recognised with Innovation of the Year for its groundbreaking role delivering the UK’s first Safer Drug Consumption Facility. Led by Glasgow City HSCP, this project brought together a range of partners, including Glasgow City Council, City Building, NHSGGC, and several others, to create a service that addresses complex health and social challenges.

The Thistle is a unique service, the implementation of which required innovative solutions to many service requirements never previously encountered within UK health environments. Through extensive consultations with Lived Experience Reference Groups and the surrounding community, the team ensured the facility was tailored to meet the unique needs of users, with the potential to significantly reduce harm and influence future legislation.

Volunteer of the Year

Ross Parker and Paul Young

Paul and Ross have been recognised as Volunteer of the Year for their exceptional contributions at Gartnavel Royal Hospital.

Paul, a Garden Volunteer at the Growing Spaces, dedicates his time to maintaining the hospital gardens and supporting patients, staff, and visitors through gardening workshops and hands-on advice. His efforts help improve mental and physical wellbeing by creating a peaceful, nurturing space for all.

Ross, a Games Volunteer, provides a calming presence in the Hub Café, offering patients, staff, and visitors the opportunity to engage in games and meaningful conversations. His empathy and excellent listening skills contribute significantly to easing stress and anxiety.

Both volunteers have made invaluable contributions to the hospital environment, enriching the lives of those they support.

Overall Winner Nominees

Team of the Year

Moving & Handling Team

The Moving and Handling Team provides support in complex patient moving and handling situations, providing safe and effective solutions for both the patient and for staff looking after them. Due to the pandemic and the need for a mass recruitment campaign, a significant backlog of staff in the nurse bank required training in Moving and Handling. 

This training is needed to ensure compliance with national and local policy and is fundamental for safeguarding staff and patient safety.

Employee of the Year

Mark Allen, Senior HR Administrator, Staff Experience Team

Mark provides a fantastic administrative service to the Staff Governance Committee, Remuneration Committee and Workforce Equality Group. 

Mark frequently supports other key initiatives within Staff Experience or across the broader HR Team, such as the EDI learning event or support for the Public Enquiry. In 2024, with the Head of HR Corporate leaving, Mark had to step in to lead much of the work around Remuneration Committee.

Leader of the Year

Gillian Gall, Head of HR, West Dunbartonshire HSCP

Gillian epitomises the values of the HR profession, very knowledgeable and works hard to learn and retain information so that she can provide timely and accurate advice and guidance. She is quick to recognise and praise achievements and encourages others to succeed. Gillian’s approach is having a positive impact on the perception of HR within the HSCP, and her influence extends to both WDC and NHS staff.

Innovation of the Year

Medical Bank Payroll, Craig Rennie, Workforce Planning & Information Manager

The Medical Bank Payroll has been manually handled for years since the Bank was commenced.  This involved downloading all shifts from the Bank system and then typing them onto SSTS. This allowed payroll to pay the doctors.

Craig developed a solution that allows the process to be automated, reducing effort and increasing accuracy. 

It has also been shared across the wider team, allowing for resilience around individual availability. The process has reduced from 4 days effort to 0.5 days effort.

Volunteer of the Year

Emma Kelly, HR Assistant, HR Support and Advice Unit

Emma introduced a weekly closed case report which pulls together information from various sources and presents it in a very user-friendly way. This clearly shows, week by week, how many cases have been closed, in what areas and for what reasons. It also has an interactive element which brings the report to life. 

Emma also provides support to colleagues and develops database activity to support attendance management action planning.

Overall Winner Nominees

Team of the Year

Children’s Residential Services (The View, Crosshill & Kylemore Children’s Houses)

The Children’s Residential Services Team in Inverclyde exist across three local houses The View, Kylemore & Crosshill who work around the clock to provide a loving and caring home for young people up to the age of 21. The team work extremely hard to provide a safe and nurturing home for children who are unable to reside with their families and they embody the core values of being child-centered, trauma-responsive and provide love and nurture ensuring that every child in our homes receives the support they need to thrive.

Beyond their crucial role in residential care, the team extends their reach to offer invaluable outreach services to families across Inverclyde, providing crucial support during evenings and weekends.

Employee of the Year

Laura Kenicer (Advanced Pharmacist, Primary Care)

Laura is an Advanced pharmacist within Inverclyde HSCP, she leads on Chronic Pain with the HSCP pharmacy team as well as being the professional secretary for the Scottish Pain Pharmacy Network. She has supported our pharmacy staff to deliver tier 3 opiate medication reviews, including training our staff on the administration, prescribing and patient counselling for naloxone. Furthermore, she supports the pharmacists develop clinically with her practice educator role.

Laura is passionate about supporting patients with chronic pain and those with issues with alcohol and drug misuse. She leads by example and is an inspiration to other staff.

Her passion for supporting these patients’ groups, encourages our team to take on advancing skills to also benefit the population of Inverclyde.

Leader of the Year

Gayle McQueen (Wellbeing Coordinator, Inverclyde Homelessness Centre)

Gayle’s approach to recruitment ensured a team of dedicated individuals were introduced to the service to deliver support of varying intensities to meet the needs of each resident both in the Inverclyde Centre and in Temporary Furnished Flats in the community.

Gayle furnished a large communal lounge and a smaller lounge for outreach work, tirelessly engaged with third sector organisations and community assets to ensure residents received the care and attention of local dentists, opticians and student hairdressers who provided valuable services to make residents feel good about themselves.

She ensured they were trained in food hygiene to facilitate a brunch club  three times a week providing wholesome and nutritious food to people who were hungry, and mentored residents in cooking and basic hygiene skills.

Innovation of the Year

Laura Gordon (Health Visiting Team Lead)

Laura had the idea of an App where parents and carers could access all the information that Health Visitors provide. Parents and carers will be able to access information that is safe and approved from their own mobile device at any time of night and day.

Links provided signpost to recommended guidance and supports and offer insights into children’s health, wellbeing, and development as well as a wealth of other relevant information. It provides reassurance for families, reduces the use of paper leaflets and ensures parents are not sourcing out of date or inaccurate information. The App is available to download now and will be officially launched this year. It is called Happy Healthy Tots.

Volunteer of the Year

Arlene Bissett

In addition to working and supporting her two adult sons, Arlene is involved in a number of local Inverclyde disability groups.  Arlene’s close connections in the Inverclyde community makes her a source of information about voluntary organisations and things to do. 

This helps other staff in the CLDT find out about activities people who use our service can access.  Because her own sons are both active and contributing members of the community, she encourages others that people with neurological differences can be successful. She makes a difference to the young people who are members of the local Scouts, and to all the people who enjoy a meal from the Warm Kitchen.

Overall Winner Nominees

Team of the Year

NHSGGC Primary Care Practice Educators

This programme, developed in 2023, was led by Tamara Cairney and delivered by dedicated Practice Educators across the HSCP teams. Throughout 2024, 53 pharmacists have been supported through the 12-week intensive period of supervision programme, beginning with a comprehensive Learning Needs Analysis.

This is aimed at developing pharmacists’ skills and confidence to manage increasingly complex patient care. This approach fosters the development of competence and autonomy, enhancing clinical decision-making capabilities. The program is designed to promote holistic professional growth by integrating reflective practice, patient feedback, and realistic clinical conversations. Pharmacists also have access to valuable well-being resources and are actively encouraged to collaborate within multidisciplinary teams, further enriching their learning experience.

Employee of the Year

Laura Kenicer Advanced Pharmacist (Primary Care)

Laura is an Advanced pharmacist who leads on Chronic Pain. She is a practice educator, supporting pharmacy staff to deliver tier 3 opiate medication reviews. This includes naloxone training on administration, prescribing and patient counselling.

She supports the HSCPs’ Alcohol and Drugs Partnership; chairs Inverclyde Drug Death Review Committee; co-chair of the Supporting Self-Management of Chronic Pain in Inverclyde Group; professional secretary for the Scottish Pain Pharmacy Network and is a member of the Inverclyde HSCP Mental Health, Alcohol and Drug Recovery and Homelessness Services Clinical and Care Governance Group. Laura is passionate about supporting patients and leads by example to inspire other staff, supporting them both professionally and personally. She is an amazing advocate for patients within Inverclyde.  

Leader of the Year

Susan Kafka Lead Clinical Pharmacist, Maternity Gynaecology and neonates

Susan demonstrates all the skills required to be a fantastic leader and role model.

She successfully implemented a planned re-design of Neonatal Pharmacy Service structure creating a peripatetic team for NHS GGC. Her engaging, inclusive style of leadership supported staff to engage with change, resulting in a smooth transition to the new structure.

This new flexibility has improved resilience and paved the way for standardisation and improvement of practices, supporting improved continuity of care for babies and their families. Under Susan’s leadership the team: demonstrate cohesive team working across 3 sectors; have shown great resilience through challenging times; support each other personally and professionally; are practising at their highest level and are involved in delivering service improvement or research.

Innovation of the Year

Pharmacy Technician COPD Patient Group Sessions: Improving Care & Developing the Clinical Role

Laura had the idea of an App where parents and carers could access all the information that Health Visitors provide. Parents and carers will be able to access information that is safe and approved from their own mobile device at any time of night and day.

Links provided signpost to recommended guidance and supports and offer insights into children’s health, wellbeing, and development as well as a wealth of other relevant information. It provides reassurance for families, reduces the use of paper leaflets and ensures parents are not sourcing out of date or inaccurate information. The App is available to download now and will be officially launched this year. It is called Happy Healthy Tots.

Director of Pharmacy Award

Hayley Miller and Sam Hayes

These individuals came together to act when they identified an opportunity to target waste and support the sustainability agenda.

They sent out information to staff detailing that medicines contribute to 25% of the NHS’s carbon emissions and invited interested parties to join a group so that everyone could all play a part in reducing our service’s carbon footprint. They encouraged change – big or small.

The new group, QECO, worked with a range of partners e.g. facilities, to establish site wide participation in change. Some initial changes included; implementation of site wide card recycling; reduced plastic bag use and an IVOST project in ICU. Future work is planned to maximise on national campaigns such as World Recycling Day in March.

Overall Winner Nominees

Team of the Year

Public Health Protection Unit and Health Services Admin Team

The Health Protection and Health Services Admin support team is quiet, hardworking, modest, and kind, always doing their best to assist the Nursing and Consultant teams, even when overwhelmed. They are vital for supporting safe and knowledgeable practice, always smiling and maintaining a ‘can do’ attitude. An efficient support network is essential for clinical staff, especially during times of extra workload and pressure.

The PHPU Admin team is always present and their massive contribution is the backbone of the department, ensuring smooth functioning.

Employee of the Year

Louise Logue – Health Improvement Practitioner, Quit Your Way Smoking Cessation

Louise excels in providing smoking cessation support in NHSGGC’s Quit Your Way Community Service. She assists clients in West Dunbartonshire with intensive, person-centred support via phone and face-to-face clinics. Louise is dedicated, ensuring everyone receives 100% effort, and has built strong partnerships in the area.

Her exceptional support has garnered numerous positive patient stories on Care Opinion, praising her friendliness, knowledge, and dedication. Louise is also a supportive colleague, contributing to team improvements and assisting other Quit Your Way teams, such as the Pregnancy Service, during capacity challenges. Her commitment ensures the best service for all clients.

Leader of the Year

Susan Brodie-Adamson – Health Improvement Senior, Quit Your Way Smoking Cessation

Susan, the Team Lead for the Acute Quit Your Way Hospital Stop Smoking Service, is highly respected for her approachable, determined, and resilient nature. She is trusted to make the right decisions and is also known for her humorous and mischievous side, making her an ideal leader.

Susan encourages team members to shine, focusing on their strengths and helping improve weaknesses. She is empathetic, always ready to listen to work or personal issues, and quick to praise when deserved. Susan ensures no one struggles alone, always going the extra mile to support her team.

Innovation of the Year

Frontline Equalities Assessment Tool – Equalities and Human Rights Team

Over the past year, the Equality and Human Rights team implemented the Frontline Equality Assessment (FEA) tool across 40 wards and services. The Frontline Equalities Assessment tool assesses the integration of inequalities-sensitive practices, covering all protected characteristics. It evaluates patient data, communication support, and knowledge of related issues, policies, and discharge planning.

The tool includes a BME Pathway and an Autism Sensitised Pathway for further exploration. The tool helps staff reduce healthcare inequalities and identifies unmet needs, benefiting patients by removing access barriers. It ensures NHS GGC complies with Equality Legislation and the Public Sector Equality Duty, and informs the next Equality Scheme.

Volunteer of the Year

Brian Laidlaw – Support and Information Service (SIS)

Brian has demonstrated consistently his passion, commitment, and dedication to NHSGGC Hospital Support & Information Services (SIS) over the past 12 years. Recruited in April 2012, Brian has been a steadfast supporter of SIS frontline patient services, contributing weekly. His friendly, empathetic, and compassionate approach helps create a safe space for patients, carers, and families.

Brian balances the demands of healthcare volunteering with being a full-time carer for his wife. He is an integral part of the team, providing invaluable support to SIS workers and ensuring comprehensive care for patients and carers. NHSGGC SIS is proud to have him on their team.

Overall Winner Nominees

Team of the Year

Elder Ward Nursing Team, Rowanbank Clinic

The Elder Ward nursing team at Rowanbank Clinic were praised for the care shown to patients as they were awarded Team of the Year. 

Colleagues who nominated the team highlighted their compassion and told how they were “consistently amazed at the strength and resilience shown” including the innovative and individualised ways they engage with patients.  

Employee of the Year

Lorna Welsh, Advanced Clinical Nurse Specialist, Haematology, QEUH

Lorna Welsh, an Advanced Clinical Nurse Specialist working in Haematology at the Queen Elizabeth University Hospital, was named Employee of the Year.  She acts as a first point of contact for patients who’ve had bone marrow transplants and was praised for continually going “above and beyond” for those she cares for as well as her colleagues.

The service includes patients from across 12 Scottish health board areas, ranging in age and needs. Lorna’s expertise is often called upon from national and international organisations, including European Bone Marrow Transplant and the Anthony Nolan charity.

Leader of the Year

Lynsey Watt, Senior Charge Nurse, Ward B1, Beatson West of Scotland Cancer Centre

The Leader of the Year prize went to Lynsey Watt, Senior Charge Nurse in the Beatson’s B1 ward for Gynaecology and skin cancer patients.

She was described as having a “positive, can-do attitude”, with colleagues saying Lynsey’s dedication to person-centred care is significant and spans everyone she interacts with including patients, families and colleagues.

Lynsey was also praised for ensuring pop star Marti Pellow visited the ward to meet one of her patients, who couldn’t get out of bed, when he was at the Beatson recently to raise awareness of breast cancer symptoms.

Innovation of the Year

Magic Leap

This year’s Innovation prize went to staff at the Institute for Neurological Sciences who have been using a pioneering mixed reality (MR) system that allows them to “see inside” a patient’s body during surgery. 

The MR goggles and system, known as the Magic Leap, are used by Consultant Neurosurgeon and Complex Spine Surgeon Mohamed Abdelsadg and colleagues to make surgeries less invasive and more accurate, minimising damage to other tissue. 

The team were said to have “demonstrated remarkable dedication to advancing patient care by embracing cutting-edge technologies” that help to enhance precision. 

Overall Winner Nominees

Team of the Year

Weavers Linn Team

Weavers Linn, a core part of our Learning Disabilities Service, is a dynamic and progressive service, known for their collaborative spirit and commitment to exceptional service user care. They proactively partner with other organisations to enhance support and ensure consistent, safe care and support. Their innovative approaches to service user progression are balanced by a professional yet fun atmosphere, creating a positive and supportive environment for both staff and service users.

Employee of the Year

Linda Murdoch – Public Affairs Manager

Linda is very motivated and hard working with an excellent customer focused attitude.  She strives to ensure every complainant feels heard. Not only does Linda take time to talk to people and explain their options, but she listens and is able to genuinely help and offer good advice and comfort.

Leader of the Year

Ann Marie Cumming – Senior Business Support Assistant

Ann Marie has proven herself to be an outstanding leader, providing both guidance and unwavering support to her admin team and the wider district nursing team. Her leadership style is characterized by empathy, dedication, and an innate ability to inspire those around her. Ann Marie’s approach to leadership focuses on the wellbeing of her team, ensuring they feel valued, supported, and empowered in their roles.

Innovation of the Year

Well in Renfrewshire (WiRe) Map – Allan Mair and Carolyn Russell

The Well in Renfrewshire, or Wire, map displays information about the huge range of community groups and activities available across Renfrewshire in a visual and easy to use way. Our front-line workers as well as partner organisations and local people have been using it over the last few months to find out what’s available to them in their local area.

This is something that we have long been told is required. The map is evolving continually and Allan and Carolyn have been instrumental in liaising with partners in both the development of the technical side and in the gathering of the information.

Community Involvement Award

Thrive Under 5 Project

This programme takes a whole system, community food nurturing approach with the families of pre-school children, combining action on food and financial insecurity, healthy eating and physical activity. In the initial stages, the Health Improvement team led on the collection of data and information from partners around child health, poverty and food insecurity to allow comprehensive data analysis before constructing a community asset map model of two localities in Paisley Northwest & Johnstone.

Best Supporting Role

Change & Improvement Team

The Change and Improvement team is an invaluable part of the HSCP’s support services, working across operational services to make a significant and tangible difference to the quality of services the HSCP provides.  The team plays a fundamental role in our successful delivery of policy, strategy, and our savings programme. Over the last year, the team has provided ongoing leadership and input to the Sustainable Futures programme, service improvement work and board wide activity. 

As such the team’s contribution to progressing the strategic direction of the IJB and HSCP and supporting financial sustainability has been immeasurable and feedback has continuously noted the exceptional impact the team has had.

Chief Officer Award

CIRCLE Recovery Hub

Challenging times with restructures and reduced finances in Renfrewshire have seen a reduction in Support staff at CIRCLE Recovery Hub with the referral rates continuing to be high.

Our support staff have continued to give everything they have to support individuals in Renfrewshire that have mental health and / or addiction related issues, by continuing to develop the service provision, not only within one building but a Recovery Community in Renfrewshire as a whole.  The integrity of partnership working and seeing their provision as a piece of a large support network has supported these challenging times and also built strong connections with partner agencies, which aligns to future goals of the RHSCP.

Overall Winner Nominees

Team of the Year

West Dunbartonshire HSCP Mental Health Officers

West Dunbartonshire HSCP Mental Health Officers collaborate with Medical and Legal professionals to fulfil the Statutory Duty to protect and support people experiencing mental health issues.

Every day, they go “above and beyond”, seeking to provide a person-centred, caring aspect to their work with those in the community who have reached a crisis point in their lives.

Forging strong relationships with their multi-disciplinary colleagues, they work closely together, offering peer mentoring and support which has significant benefits in terms of consistent and effective practice. 

But their main focus is the people themselves – making sure they are fully included and engaged in their care as an equal partner whose voice is heard and then evidenced within their assessments.

Employee of the Year

Gioia Sichi-Smith, HCV Specialist Nurse, Senior BBV/Harm Reduction Nurse, Addiction Services

As a key member of the West Dunbartonshire Alcohol and Drug Recovery Service, Gioia provides care, treatment and support to the most vulnerable people in the Community, making a difference every day.

Increasingly concerned at their lack of engagement with sexual health services, she completed additional training in this area of specialty, over and above her normal duties.  Her qualifications have allowed her to commence a weekly Clinic which incorporates sexual health screening as well as other Harm Reduction interventions.

Collaborating with colleagues and services across West Dunbartonshire, Gioia is expanding this work further, promoting the benefits of regular healthcare, and delivering awareness training for service users to help them on their personal recovery journey.

A true inspiration to others!

Leader of the Year

Joyce Habo, Business Support Supervisor & PA to Chief Officer

Joyce provides valued support and guidance across West Dunbartonshire Health & Social Care Partnership.

Responding to current challenges, her leadership style has encouraged adaptability and resourcefulness to support the vision and direction of business priorities.

Mindful of the impact of change on her Team, she sought to create an environment fostering collaborative working and ongoing development, where colleagues still feel “cared for” themselves.

As a result, she has built credibility and earned the respect of her peers, the Senior Management Team and the wider organisation.

She fulfils an unconditional business support role with an attentive and efficient attitude towards everyone – showing empathy and a willingness to help, whilst being vigilant to the impact of an ever-evolving business landscape.

Innovation of the Year

MSK Project Team (Streamlined Vetting Process)

Reviewing and rebuilding the referral vetting process was a priority project for the MSK Physiotherapy service, ensuring patients receive the right care at the right time with the right clinician.

The MSK Project Team comprises a range of dedicated staff – from Health Care Support Workers to Advanced Practice Physiotherapy staff from MSK and Orthopaedics.  Together, they met each challenge, completing project milestones within timescale.

As well as significantly improving patient experience, the new process makes more effective use of capacity for new appointments, maximising clinical skills and expertise at all levels.

Patient and Staff feedback has contributed to further improvements and the impact of the new process will continue to be evaluated as the project evolves.

Volunteer of the Year

Allison Graham, Low Back Pain Advanced Physiotherapy Practitioner

Allison has been described as “an exceptional Physiotherapist who is attuned to the diverse needs of the multi-cultural and socio-economic challenges of the patient population she serves.”

Her professional dedication is mirrored by her personal involvement in numerous initiatives aimed at fostering inclusivity and supporting under-represented groups. 

One of these is the “Milk Enterprise Project” in Govanhill where Allison shows her commitment to empowering women from asylum-seeking and refugee backgrounds.

She volunteers her time to help them practice English and discuss health-related issues, providing vital support that extends beyond her day job, for example, establishing a weekly exercise class tailored to their needs, or organising a Quiz to help those preparing for the UK Residency test.

A very worthy winner!

Overall Winner Nominees

Team of the Year

RHC NICU

The Neonatal team at RHC has been outstanding during a particularly challenging time of displacement from the Neonatal unit. Despite having their intensive care unit flooded, necessitating a move to another area of the hospital, the team continued to

provide high-quality care to extremely sick and preterm babies. Their dedication and compassion have been remarkable, making them truly deserving of recognition for their incredible efforts and resilience. The team has pushed above and beyond all reserves to deliver high standards of care.

Patients in the neonatal unit can be very unwell, and a few of them will not make the journey to go home. The team is helping families to create lasting memories, treating everyone with dignity and respecting their individual needs and backgrounds.

Employee of the Year

Eleanor Quirke

Eleanor has been an exceptional employee and leader throughout her time in HPN, always demonstrating clear expectations delivered with care, kindness, and compassion. She listens actively and guides her colleagues through significant changes in maternity and neonatal services with unwavering optimism and hope. Eleanor’s trustworthiness, decisiveness, and willingness to take responsibility for her decisions have been invaluable.

She empowers her team, listens to differing views, and makes thoughtful decisions promptly. Her leadership has been integral to our success in neonatal service development, embodying the GGC values of respect and professionalism. Eleanor is a pillar of support and inspiration, making her truly deserving of this honour.

Leader of the Year

Mary Ross Davie

Mary has been awarded for her exceptional contributions as Director of Midwifery, driven by her compassionate and caring nature. Mary has transformed many aspects within the service. Her inspirational ways of working and unwavering commitment to high-quality service for all women and their families have been truly remarkable.

Mary unites the team with her positive vision, enthusiasm, and drive. Her care and compassion are evident in her work ethic and the care she demonstrates to both staff and women. Through her transformational work, she has fostered a positive culture within maternity services, emphasising dignity and respect. Mary’s approachable and empathetic nature allows her to bring staff along on her vision for change, creating a great team dynamic that ensures progress and continuous improvement of maternity services.

Innovation of the Year

Chris Hardwick

The same-day gynaecology operating initiative at New Victoria Hospital, led by Chris Hardwick with invaluable input from Claire Stewart and Vanessa Mackay, has revolutionized surgical opportunities for women on lengthy gynaecology waiting lists. By adapting existing pathways and guidelines and educating staff, they have significantly improved training opportunities for gynaecology trainees and nursing staff.

The day surgery team at New Victoria has harnessed their skills and knowledge to deliver highly productive theatre lists, resulting in shorter waiting times and positive postoperative experiences for patients. This innovative use of resources has not only enhanced staff morale and skill sets but also positively impacted other aspects of care and staff retention

Volunteer of the Year

John Lennox

John has been an invaluable volunteer at our respiratory clinic for many years, earning the respect and admiration of everyone in OPD RHC. He recognizes regular patients, ensures they check in correctly, and escorts them to other departments to keep things running smoothly. John’s contributions extend to the children’s charity, where he dons various outfits to make a better journey for our the patients. His respect, care, compassion, and empathy towards patients and families are evident in every interaction.

John is seen as an integral part of our team, keeping families, patients, and staff updated about clinic-related issues. His familiarity with the respiratory clinic’s operations and procedures used by doctors and multidisciplinary teams makes him truly deserving of the Volunteer of the Year award.

Rights of the Child Award

OPAT Team

The Paediatric Outpatient Parenteral Antibiotic Therapy (OPAT) service at RHC, established in December 2023, has been a beacon of excellence in providing safe and efficient care. This service allows children to receive intravenous antibiotics through daily hospital visits, rather than staying in the hospital, supporting their right to heal in the comfort of their home with family.

The OPAT service has significantly improved healthcare standards by developing new pathways, enhancing communication, and providing continuity of care. Between December 2023 and December 2024, 53 patients were managed by the OPAT service, saving 589 hospital days. The team’s dedication to quality, safety, and compassion has made a profound impact on patients and their families, making them truly deserving of this award.

The team, department, service or function that has been judged to have worked together as a team and made the most significant contribution to quality of care, population health and care, service delivery or staff wellbeing likely under significant pressure or difficult circumstances.

Any member of staff who has stood out as an exemplar of care giving, service delivery or who has made a major difference for colleagues around them or the delivery of a key objective for their department or wider NHSGGC/HSCP.

Any member of staff who has demonstrated outstanding leadership, positive values and behaviours and/or inspired others in a particularly challenging situation, or for the respect they get from others through the day to day difference they make for those around them as a leader.

Any member of staff can demonstrate leadership, not just those who formally manage people.

To recognise any individual, team or department responsible for developing and implementing an innovative service, method, technology or process that has made a significant difference to quality of care, wider population health or care, service delivery or to the wellbeing of our own staff or to the efficient use our resources.

To recognise an individual or team of individuals who have volunteered significant time and effort to the benefit of our patients, service users or staff and made selfless contribution perhaps under difficult personal circumstances.