Local winners of Greater Manchester Health and Care Champion Awards

Date published: 25 July 2023

Staff from Pennine Care NHS Foundation Trust and social enterprise PossAbilities were celebrated at the Greater Manchester Health and Care Champion Awards 2023 on 13 July.

Over 500 people were nominated for 13 categories including Community Champion, Volunteer Champion and People’s Champion. Finalists attended a ceremony held at the National Football Museum, hosted by Manchester-born, TV presenter Michelle Ackerley, to celebrate the winners.

There were plenty of inspirational stories shared on the night, really highlighting the strength, determination and dedication of all those who work within the health and care workforce – both employed and unwaged.

Jill Dodge, an administrator at Pennine Care NHS Foundation Trust, was one of four people to be presented with Mayor Andy Burnham’s Special Recognition Award, celebrating a contribution to health and care that is truly unique.

Amy Wilcox-Jones, training nursing associate at Pennine Care NHS Foundation Trust, was named Learner of the Year, whilst PossAbilities won Innovation Champion for their digital content team.

The Collaboration Award was presented to the mental health joint response services across Greater Manchester.

The People’s Champion Award was chosen by the public and recognises an individual or team for their commitment to improving the health and wellbeing of others. Winner on the night was Donna Bannister, a support worker at Making Space, which provides adult health and social care services, including in Rochdale.

Donna puts the wellbeing of others at the heart of everything she does and set up initiatives which support vulnerable tenants in leading a healthy lifestyle. These include a walking group, a healthy eating group and a men’s wellbeing group.

Sir Richard Leese, chair of NHS Greater Manchester Integrated Care Board, said: “It is an honour to hear of the fantastic work that happens across our health and care system every day. It’s so important that we take the time to recognise the commitment and dedication of our colleagues.

“As many of us have been celebrating 75 years of the NHS this month, it seems particularly poignant to express our pride and appreciation for the skill and compassion of our employed and unwaged workforce who care for our patients and their families often in challenging circumstances.

“A huge congratulations to all of our winners – well deserved.”

Mayor of Greater Manchester, Andy Burnham said he said “delighted” to present Jill with her award, adding: “It is fantastic to have the opportunity to celebrate our champions in health and care here in Greater Manchester.

“These people are the backbone of our health and care service.  They have truly dedicated not only their working lives, but their later lives to helping others.

“Well done to all our winners and indeed, all of those nominated. Thank you all for going the extra mile and always putting those you care for first.”