Last week we announced all our finalists in this year’s CHuFT Awards. As we start the countdown to the main Awards event on Thursday, 24th July, we’ll be hearing from some of our finalists on what it means to be shortlisted.

First up, we hear from colleagues shortlisted in our new category for 2025 – Compassionate Leader.

Nominations in this category were for colleagues that make a real difference to the person who nominated them, their team and their service users, role modelling the values and behaviours of the organisation. Entries needed to include examples of how they’ve led change, put people first and achieved a positive outcome.

The Compassionate Leader finalists are:

• Kam Khehra, Operations Manager: Surgical Management Team
• Dr Laxmikant Chaudhari: Medical Staff, Obs and Gynae
• Sarah Wilson, Head Nurse: ICC Directorate Management
• Vanessa Dickinson, Head Nurse: Medical Divisional Management
• Vicky Jackson-Furness, Inpatient Therapy Team Leader (Rehabilitation): Acute Inpatient Therapy

Sarah, pictured left with her cute pooch Esme, said: “I was super shocked to find out I was a finalist and a little overwhelmed. I was on a day off when the names were announced and I just got loads of emails saying congratulations. I had no clue what they were talking about, but quickly realised. I am looking forward to celebrating in July with a Trust that has felt like home since I started here 10 years ago!!”

Kam, right, told us: “When I found out I was a finalist, I was genuinely shocked and surprised! Honestly, I half-expected a “just kidding” message to follow.

“CHFT has an incredible workforce full of exceptionally talented people, so just being nominated is truly humbling. I’m really looking forward to the event - especially with the summer theme, as it’s bound to have such a great vibe. I can’t wait to share the experience with everyone.”

This year will be Laxmikant's first time at the awards. He said: "I genuinely find joy in contributing to the lives of patients and supporting the growth of individuals within the team. Being nominated feels like a kind acknowledgement of that commitment, and I’m truly grateful.

"The awards will offer an opportunity to understand the work of others at the Trust and enjoy the atmosphere while supporting my colleagues who have also been shortlisted, whose success would be equally exciting for me."

Though not everyone who was nominated, could be shortlisted, below is who else was nominated for the Compassionate Leader category. A huge well done to all: