North Cheshire and Mersey named as regional champion at first NHS Excellence Awards

An outstanding programme to develop aspiring leaders from ethnic minority backgrounds has been named as a regional champion at the inaugural NHS Excellence Awards.

The ‘Your Future Your Way’ programme has been recognised in the Valuing Our People category for its work to break down barriers to career progression.

The programme, developed by the Organisation Development Team, focuses on addressing disparity and inequity in leadership roles by providing a structured career development pathway to nurture talent and help meet longer term workforce needs.

Colleagues from ethnic minorities are supported to develop the capability, confidence and skills to take the next step in their leadership journey in an inclusive environment. 

For aspiring leaders, the programme offers a series of development sessions alongside a level 3 leadership qualification. This is complemented by a development programme for senior leaders, supporting them to understand leadership styles and actively sponsor a colleague on the career progression pathway.

This approach helps create more inclusive leadership that champions diversity, tackles barriers and positively impacts patient care.

Since its introduction, the programme has supported more than 50 colleagues to gain leadership qualifications and increased the representation of ethnic minority colleagues at a senior leader level. One participant shared that participating in the programme has been ‘one of the most rewarding experiences’ of their career.

Paula Woods, chief people officer at North Cheshire and Mersey, said: “I am delighted and very proud that our organisation has being named as the regional champion in the national NHS awards. This is a fantastic achievement for our Organisational Development Team who deliver the programme and reflects our commitment to being a workplace where everyone is valued and supported to thrive.” 

More than 390 nominations across 10 categories were submitted in the North West, shining a light on the ways teams across the region are improving care for patients and communities.

Regional champions will now form the final shortlist, with winners to be announced at the national award ceremony taking place during NHS Confed Expo in June.