The only Greater Manchester-wide awards which recognise the exemplary contributions of our whole health and care workforce has announced its 2024 shortlist and the stories are as inspirational as ever. The Greater Manchester Health and Care Champion Awards are organised by NHS Greater Manchester and were first held in 2018. They are an opportunity to show recognition and gratitude to those working hard to improve the health and wellbeing of the people in our communities.

Health Innovation Manchester (HInM) is delighted to share that Nicky Timmis (Public and Patient Involvement and Engagement Manager, HInM) has been nominated for 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.

Nominations for the awards have been submitted from across the health and care sector of all ten boroughs of Greater Manchester. Many include the contribution of staff who have dedicated years to working in the sector while others are making great leaps at the start of their health and care journey. Some of the nominations, such as Nicky’s, detail those striving to tackle health inequalities within communities, while others have volunteered their own time to help improve the lives of others. One thing is for sure – all those nominated are well-deserving of award and recognition.

All shortlisted nominations will be considered by a judging panel and the winners announced at a sponsored event on 11 July 2024.

Nicky spoke of her nomination and said: “I was shocked but also thrilled to bits to be nominated for this award in the category of Equality Champion. There are so many colleagues who go above and beyond every day to help tackle health inequalities and make a real difference to the lives of local people so to be short-listed is very humbling.  So to me, this nomination is very much for all those who go the extra mile too.”

Mark Fisher, Chief Executive of NHS Greater Manchester, said: “Congratulations to the nominees who have 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, said: “It’s fantastic to see the Greater Manchester Health and Care Champion Awards are back again for their fifth year.”

“The variety of individuals and teams shortlisted across Greater Manchester is 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, and I look forward to finding out more about their hard work and innovation at the awards ceremony in July.”

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