We had two winners of our Work Together Get Results (WTGR) category – which is all about teamwork and partnership.

Congratulations to the Deteriorating Patient Task and Finish Group and to Deputy Director of Operations for Surgery, Laura Cooper.

The Deteriorating Patient Task and Finish Group has delivered sustained, organisation‑wide improvement in patient safety through exceptional collaboration and data‑driven change. They have transformed observations from below 50% to consistently above 80%. They empowered colleagues, removed barriers and strengthened confidence. Their compassionate, inclusive approach has created lasting cultural change, ensuring deteriorating patients are recognised earlier and cared for more safely.

Welcoming just a few of the team on stage to collect the Award, Neeraj asked how the MDT approach had contributed to the success of the project. Martha’s Rule Matron, Joanne Briggs, said: "We’ve talked a lot tonight about being part of a family here at CHFT. With our MDT approach our family can't all here tonight. A lot of them are still at work while we celebrate. Without everyone involved in this project, it wouldn’t have worked. That goes for the volunteering team, the Exec Board and the team here on stage. Without every single person, this project wouldn’t have come together at all."

Laura’s nominator wrote how she is an exceptional leader who brings people together to deliver transformational change. They wrote how they 'could have nominated her in every category this year, and it was a genuinely difficult decision to choose between WTGR and Compassionate Leader'. Using strong collaboration and clear purpose, she drives innovation that improves patient care, access and outcomes across services. From advancing surgical innovation to redesigning pathways, she empowers teams, removes barriers and builds lasting partnerships, creating a culture of shared ownership, compassion and continuous improvement. At the heart of her actions is a genuine desire to improve the working lives of her colleagues and the outcomes of our patients. 

Laura said: "I’ve been at CHFT for 10 years and I love it. This is the best award for me because WTGR means I’m not in my own. I’m with a team, the admin, secretaries, ward managers and clinicians. This is the best award because we’re together and we’re a team."

Congratulations to our other finalists: Hospital at Home Manager Emma Vant, the Finance Team and the Green Theatres Team.