This category for those who step up, speak up and keep everyone safe was difficult to judge, so two of our finalists were winners: Specialist Nurse, Alex Henderson and Consultant, Aaron Corp.

Alex has led major improvements to ensure medicines are safely managed and stored to required standards. He has been instrumental in making safe medicines management everyone’s business and embedding it into practice within Theatres at HRI. His nominations said that his ‘can do’ attitude has led to safer care for patients and improved skills, knowledge and confidence to drive change and embed best practice.

He offers support and advice on how to make the improvements and isn’t afraid to physically help get the job done working alongside others. He truly demonstrates understanding, care and compassion for patients and colleagues at every level.

Collecting his Award, Alex explained what motivated him after 20 years at CHFT: "I’ve a passion for nursing and I’ve worked in many trusts, but this is the best trust I’ve ever worked in and it is like being part of a big family. This sort of award is part of the people we are - it's about the teams we work in. I have a great many friends who I have worked with over the years. Being part of the Medications Safety group is wonderful. 

"The best bit is being part of a team is recognising everyone’s individuality, and that everybody together encompasses what is CHFT."

Sadly Aaron couldn’t attend the Awards, but was chosen as joint winner for demonstrating exceptional leadership and dedication to improving patient safety. Specifically, his work to ensure safe and timely reviews of deteriorating patients and improved 4-hourly observation compliance. Aaron has been cited as an advocate for best practice and high standards and has also installed confidence in colleagues in knowing they will be heard, respected and supported.

Aaron exemplifies leadership, compassion, and integrity. His influence has strengthened patient safety, empowered staff, and created lasting change.

Director of Operations For Resilience, Acute Flow and Transformation (RAFT), Renee Comerford, collected the Award for Aaron, saying: "I think it’s important to get across how influential Aaron has been in the work that happened to get us here. I know if he was here today he would say it was because of all the work that the whole team has done. But I can honestly say he’s listened to them and he’s understood every single part of this project and put a lot of time and effort into it."

Congratulations to our other finalists: Operating Theatres Leadership Team, Occupational Health’s Margaret Pryce and Assistant Finance Manager Jonathan Carbutt.