Manchester’s incredible NHS heroes changing lives across the region

Manchester celebrated its health and care heroes at the Greater Manchester Health and Care Champion Awards 2024, recognising over 500 nominees for their exceptional contributions.

Written by Thom Bamford
Last updated 4 months ago
People

Last week, Manchester celebrated its unsung heroes at the prestigious Greater Manchester Health and Care Champion Awards 2024.

The event, held at the Science and Industry Museum, saw a remarkable gathering of dedicated individuals and teams who have made significant contributions to the health and care sector.

Hosted by former Blue Peter presenter Mwaksy, the evening was a heartfelt tribute to the strength, determination, and dedication of Manchester’s health and care workforce.

Over 500 Nominations, 13 Categories, countless heroes

Greater Manchester Health and Care Champion Awards 2024 — Mwaksy Mudenda, Matthew Coles & Andy Burnham

The awards received an overwhelming 500 nominations across 13 categories, including Community Champion, Volunteer Champion, and the newly introduced Team of The Year.

Each finalist’s story was a testament to their relentless commitment to improving the lives of others.

Lifetime Achievement Award: Dr. Maeve Keaney

A highlight of the evening was the presentation of the Lifetime Achievement Award to retired doctor Maeve Keaney.

Known for her pioneering work with the REACHE project, Dr Keaney has spent over two decades helping refugee and asylum seeker healthcare professionals integrate into the NHS.

Her visionary project, launched in 2003 at Salford Royal Hospital, has supported countless doctors, nurses, and allied health professionals.

The audience gave Dr. Keaney a standing ovation as a touching video, sponsored by RLDatix, played tributes from colleagues and REACHE alumni, underscoring her profound impact on the community.

Mayor’s Special Recognition Award: Matthew Coles

Mayor Andy Burnham kicked off the evening by presenting the Mayor’s Special Recognition Award to Matthew Coles, a nurse associate at Tower Family Healthcare.

Matthew’s journey began at 16 when he started as an apprentice receptionist.

His passion for patient care drove him to train as a Healthcare Support Worker and later to pursue a Trainee Nurse Associate course at Bolton University, from which he graduated in May 2023.

Matthew’s dedication to his profession is set to continue as he embarks on a Registered Nurse Degree apprenticeship, also at Bolton University.

People’s Champion Award: Adam Hardaker

Listeners of Hits Radio had the honour of choosing the winner of the People’s Champion Award, which recognises outstanding commitment to improving health and wellbeing.

The award went to Adam Hardaker, a Supported Living Manager at Turning Point.

Adam was lauded for his passionate work supporting individuals with learning difficulties and disabilities, significantly enhancing their quality of life.

Remembering Micheal Atkinson and Lisa Jones

The ceremony also included poignant moments of remembrance for Micheal Atkinson and Lisa Jones, both of whom passed away in 2024.

Micheal, a volunteer dining companion at Salford Royal Hospital, began volunteering after being diagnosed with a Glioblastoma Brain Tumour.

His selfless service was a testament to his desire to give back to the community.

Lisa Jones, despite battling long-term health conditions, made remarkable contributions as a volunteer.

From tutoring in the expert patient programme to co-founding a long COVID peer support group, Lisa’s efforts had a lasting impact on numerous health initiatives.

In recognition of their outstanding contributions, awards were presented in their memory and accepted by their families.

Reflections from Sir Richard Leese

Sir Richard Leese, Chair of NHS Greater Manchester, expressed his admiration for all the finalists, stating: “It is an honour to be part of the Greater Manchester Health and Care Champion Awards for their fifth year.

“It’s a great opportunity to hear of the amazing work that all the shortlisted finalists do across our health and care system every day.

“All of our finalists are already highly motivated to care for our patients, our families, and our communities, but this recognition will not only show them our appreciation but will encourage others as well.”

Celebrating Excellence in Health and Care

The Greater Manchester Health and Care Champion Awards 2024 was not just a ceremony but a celebration of humanity, compassion, and community spirit.

Each story shared on this special night highlighted the extraordinary efforts of individuals who go above and beyond to make a difference.

This article was last updated 4 months ago.
It was first published on 16 July 2024 and is subject to be updated from time to time. Please refresh or return to see the latest version.

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