NHS Excellence Award regional champions
We are delighted to share that we have been named regional champions in the NHS Excellence Awards 2026 for our work on improving reasonable adjustments for staff.
The project, which won in the Valuing Our People category, launched in September 2025 following a need to strengthen our previously locally led approach to reasonable adjustments. A new, staff centred process was co produced with staff networks, designed to improve health and wellbeing, enhance overall experience and support retention.
The updated Workplace Adjustments Policy introduced several key improvements to make accessing support quicker and easier. These included a centralised organisational budget, a dedicated point of contact within the Staff Health and Wellbeing Team and the introduction of the Work With Me Passport. The passport is a living record of workplace adjustments agreed between staff and their line manager, which can be carried forward when moving teams or working with a new manager, reducing the need to repeatedly explain needs. We also partnered with Microlink to provide workplace assessments and launched Cardinus, an e-risk system for Display Screen Equipment (DSE) users.
Since launching, the Staff Health and Wellbeing Team has supported more than 100 requests. Feedback highlights that the new process is valued for its supportiveness, efficiency and responsiveness. The team has also been frequently praised for its kindness, helpfulness and dedication in enabling colleagues to access the adjustments they need.
Steve Smeeth, Head of Staff Health and Wellbeing, said: "It has been a privilege to witness the collaboration across the Trust which has enabled colleagues to receive personalised reasonable adjustments that provide the opportunity to stay well and thrive at work.
"New processes and systems can only flourish when the team delivering the work are compassionate and believe in improving staff experience."
Liz Perry, Chief People Officer, said: "I'm delighted that our organisation has been recognised as a regional champion in the NHS Excellence Awards.
"The wellbeing of our colleagues is a top priority for us, and this recognition reflects our commitment to valuing and supporting our staff. I know many colleagues have worked incredibly hard on this project. It's brilliant to see their dedication acknowledged and celebrated."
The NHS Excellence Awards are the only awards run by, and for, the NHS. They celebrate innovation, quality improvement and leadership across health and care, shining a light on teams and individuals whose work is making a real difference and inspiring others to adopt proven approaches.
Regional champions from all parts of England will now progress to the national shortlist, with winners announced at an awards ceremony at NHS ConfedExpo in Manchester in June 2026.