Work of Tameside unit honoured at Pennine Care People Awards ceremony

The care, compassion and life changing contributions of NHS staff were recognised at the Pennine Care People Awards ceremony.

Nine awards were given to teams and individuals who work for Pennine Care NHS Foundation Trust, which provides mental health, learning disability and autism services across Tameside, Bury, Heywood, Middleton and Rochdale, Stockport and Oldham.

More than 400 hard working colleagues came together to celebrate at a Manchester hotel.

The evening was jam packed with heartwarming stories of the many individuals and teams who go above and beyond to improve the lives of patients, families, and carers. 

International mental health ambassador Poppy Jaman OBE hosted the event. She delivered a heart-warming speech, before introducing the nine award categories. The winners were announced by the event’s silver sponsors, who also presented the award and certificate.

Whittaker day unit, based at Tameside Hospital, took home the community choice award. The team was nominated by several patients, carers, and partners for the work they do to support older adults with complex mental health needs, and young adults with dementia.

Described as compassionate and forward thinking, they aim to make sure people have the right information and support to live well in the community.

Pennine Care chief executive Anthony Hassall, said: “It was wonderful to bring together so many of our colleagues to recognise and celebrate their remarkable and life changing work.

“We’re seeing a year-on-year increase in the number of award submissions – with a whopping 533 received this year. This isn’t surprising as there’s so much great work happening across the organisation. The examples shared on the night were just a snapshot.

“Huge congratulations to our nine winners and well done to our finalists and everyone who was nominated. We are so grateful and proud of our Pennine Care People.”

Pennine Care Chair, Evelyn Asante-Mensah OBE, said: “This was our best event so far. The love and joy in the room was infectious and continues to radiate across our organisation.

“I’ve always been one of the NHS’s biggest cheerleaders. But recent personal experiences have brought home how vital our country’s most precious asset really is. Our colleagues are the beating heart of the NHS, so I’m so pleased we’re able to celebrate and thank them in such spectacular style.”

Event host Poppy Jaman OBE said: “It was such a privilege to be part of the 2024 Pennine Care People Awards.

“Despite 20 years of working in mental health, I never fail to feel inspired and moved by the care, compassion and dedication shown by NHS colleagues. They get up each morning determined to make a positive difference and to give people hope for a brighter future. The ceremony was a rollercoaster of emotions, that I’ll never forget.”