Run by Sussex Partnership NHS Foundation Trust, the Positive Practice Awards celebrate the hard work and dedication of its staff.
Richard Sankar, Nina Marshall, Louise Doughty, Dilip Chakrabarti, Rebecca Rollo, Stuart Lynch and Katie Butler were recognised for their outstanding work in building relationships with young people and their families and fostering an approach of genuine inclusion and psychological safety for all young people, their families and staff.
The nomination was co-produced by wider members of the Provider Collaborative team and Experts by Experience (EbEs).
Dulcie, an EbE said: "There’s nothing more fitting than calling them good listeners who genuinely take everything I say seriously and thoughtfully, maintaining a very inclusive approach and comfortable environment. These individuals get involved with and do everything they can to facilitate participation. The Senior Leadership Team supports our involvement in projects and opportunities such as podcasts, newsletters, recruitment and service design and development. It never feels tokenistic and we are taken seriously thanks to them. We are always made to feel like equals."
Ali, a Family Ambassador and parent/carer, said, said: "The Senior Leadership Team has been instrumental in embedding lived experience at the heart of our organisation’s culture and decision-making. Their commitment to listening, valuing, and amplifying the voices of young people, carers, and families has led to real, positive change across partners. They treat every voice as equal - including neurodivergent individuals - and create safe spaces where people feel seen and heard. They champion co-production by establishing lived experience roles, commissioning joint initiatives, and supporting staff to deliver person-centred care. Their leadership has driven inclusive innovation, from peer mentoring to co-produced training, shaping both our services and the wider culture of our organisation."
Nina Marshall - Programme Director, Dilip Chakrabarti - Programme Manager and Rebecca Rollo - Senior Case Manager accepted the award on behalf of the Senior Leadership Team at an awards ceremony in Brighton on 14 November 2025.
