The Greater Manchester Health and Care Champion Awards 2024 were held at the Science and Industry Museum on July 11.

More than 500 people were nominated for 13 categories including Community Champion, Volunteer Champion and the new Team of The Year category. Finalists attended the awards ceremony which was hosted by ex-“Blue Peter” presenter Mwaksy. The Greater Manchester Health and Care Champion Awards are organised by NHS Greater Manchester and were first held in 2018. They are the only Greater Manchester-wide awards which recognise the exemplary contributions of our whole health and care workforce.

People and teams from across the health and care sector in all ten boroughs of Greater Manchester were nominated for the 2024 awards. They ranged from people who have dedicated years to working in the sector to those who are making leaps at the start of their health and care journey.

Some of the nominations highlighted those who are striving to tackle health inequalities within communities. Others praised those who volunteer  to help improve the lives of others. The 2024 shortlist included a chef, a football club secretary, a team of midwives and a Macmillan dementia nurse. They were chosen by a judging panel.

Mark Fisher, Chief Executive of NHS Greater Manchester, said: “Congratulations to the nominees who made the shortlist for this year’s Champion Awards. It is inspiring to hear of their outstanding contributions and work to improve the lives of the people of Greater Manchester.

“These awards really highlight the important role of the staff and volunteers from a range of backgrounds and disciplines who support our services.

“I’m so glad we get to honour those working so hard each and every day – good luck to all of those who have been shortlisted.”

Mayor of Greater Manchester Andy Burnham, added: “It’s fantastic to see the Greater Manchester Health and Care Champion Awards back again for their fifth year.

“The variety of individuals and teams shortlisted across Greater Manchester was outstanding – from midwives, to care workers, and charities helping the homeless and mental health services. I’m really pleased that they are getting the recognition they deserve.”

We are delighted to share that Nicky Timmis (Public and Patient Involvement and Engagement Manager, HInM) won the Equalities Champion Award.

Nicky, a dedicated professional with nearly 30 years of experience in health and social care, shows unwavering commitment to breaking down barriers and challenging inequalities. She has left a lasting impact on the experiences of countless individuals. Nicky’s journey in the field has consistently revolved around marginalised groups and those facing disadvantage, including but not exclusive to looked-after young people, individuals with substance misuse issues, and those living with dementia.

Nicky’s efforts include supporting public panels in influencing business planning, Solutioning Processes, GMCR Governance structures, and collaborating with Programme Directors to ensure diverse voices influence decision-making at the highest level.

A recent example of Nicky’s work is her involvement in the Electronic Health Records Project which exemplifies her dedication to inclusivity. Working closely with professionals from four universities and grassroots organisations, she engaged with marginalised groups to explore public attitudes towards donating health records. Her collaboration with community members resulted in co-created information sheets and consent forms that were not only fit for purpose but also accessible to all.

Speaking of her achievement, Nicky said: “It was a wonderful event that took you through every emotion. There were nominations for NHS staff and members of the public (some of whom received their awards posthumously) who have moved mountains to make a difference to the lives of others. I felt privileged to be considered as part of that line up – and of course I enjoyed raising a glass or two with comrades to celebrate.”

You can read more about Nicky’s work in one of her blogs here.