Sussex mental health staff celebrated at virtual awards ceremony
31 March 2021
After an incredibly challenging year, the virtual awards shone a well-deserved light on nurses, doctors, occupational therapists, allied health professionals and support staff at the Sussex Partnership NHS Foundation Trust. Celebrities including Clare Balding, Jonny Wilkinson, Denise Welch and Alastair Campbell sent in messages of support and thanks that were played throughout the show.
The Positive Practice in Extraordinary Times Awards recognised the way in which all Sussex Partnership staff have gone above and beyond in continuing to support patients, service users and each other during the pandemic. Hundreds of staff tuned in to watch the online show from their homes, offices and wards.
Sam Allen, Chief Executive of Sussex Partnership, said: “As difficult as this last year has been, it has been really important to take a moment to recognise the exceptional ways in which staff have responded to the Covid-19 crisis.
“We know the months ahead will remain challenging, given the impact of the pandemic on people’s mental health. These awards have provided the opportunity to pause and reflect on the last year and support colleagues as we continue to care for people who need our help. The flexibility staff have shown to keep patients safe and provide compassionate care has been outstanding and I can’t thank them enough.”
More than 300 nominations were submitted for eight categories. The entries included numerous examples of the compassion, commitment, innovation and teamwork demonstrated by staff across the Trust. The contribution made by all the shortlisted nominations were featured throughout the event.
The awards categories were:
- Patient Support Champion
- Pandemic Partnership
- Innovation & Learning for the Future
- Equality & Inclusion
- Heads On Heroes - Lockdown Edition
- Staff Support Champion
- Covid response team of the year (non-clinical)
- Covid response team of the year (clinical)