At UHP, our Values in Practice (ViP) Awards shines a spotlight on those who go above and beyond to embody our core values. These awards remind us that every act of kindness, compassion, encouragement and gesture of support makes a huge difference to our patients, their friends and families and our colleagues.

We would like to celebrate our winners whose actions reflect our core values and have created a positive impact at the Trust.

Amelia Ward

Amelia, Service Line Quality Administrator for Medical Imaging, was honoured for her unwavering support to a colleague during a difficult time. She shared: “Winning this award really means a lot to me, it was a big surprise! Being there for a member of staff during a difficult time is something I try to do naturally, by listening, offering support, and making sure they don’t feel alone. It’s nice to know that those small, everyday actions can make a real difference, and this recognition encourages me to keep supporting others with understanding and kindness.”

Sarah Howie

Reflecting on her nomination and win, Sarah, an Occupational Therapist said: “That’s just what I’m here to do, and I love it. It’s so easy to come to work, all the team are brilliant! I’d just like to say thank you!”. Her nominator, Hayley Wonnacott, Occupational Therapist Team Lead, described Sarah as: “A true inspiration—selfless, compassionate, and dedicated to making a difference every single day. She embodies the very best of University Hospitals Plymouth NHS Trust, and I can think of no one more deserving of a VIP Award.”

Debbie Veale

Debbie, a valued member of our domestic team, received heartfelt praise from the family of a terminally ill patient. Her nominator said: “Debbie’s compassion and presence meant so much to our family. She made an unbearable experience more bearable with her warmth and understanding. We’ll never forget the difference she made.” Already recognised as Star of Site Services, Debbie’s VIP Award is a testament to her empathy and professionalism.

Rob Ashby

Rob, a Site Services Security Officer, was commended for his courageous and compassionate response during a critical mental health emergency. His calm actions helped de-escalate a high-risk situation and ultimately saved a life. His nominator described his response as: “Life-saving and deeply human.” Rob’s efforts not only protected the patient but also brought comfort and reassurance to her family.

Jo Page

Jo, a Consultant Obstetrician and Gynaecologist, expressed her surprise and gratitude: “It was a huge surprise to win a VIP award, and an even greater surprise to find the chief executive and my colleagues hiding in a delivery room! It really is lovely to receive appreciation from a patient and the Trust. These awards are a wonderful initiative that allow us to reflect on what went well, rather than what did not.”

Anna Wilson

Anna, Lead Cancer Nurse Practitioner for Urology, received a nomination from her colleague Charlotte Burgoyne, Clinical Admin Manager, who praised Anna as an inspiration for future nurses and a driving force behind positive changes for urology patients. Charlotte said: “Anna is everything a nurse and leader should be. She is a tower of strength, a listening ear and a champion of our wellbeing and the wellbeing of patients. She is a shiny beacon of the Trust’s core values.” Anna reflected: “Thank you! This is very unexpected, and you all caught me by surprise today. I’m really lucky because we have an amazing team, and I don’t think I could do half of what I do without them. We’re very fortunate that we look after each other. Now that we have got the new unit, hopefully, we can continue to make things better for our patients.”

Amy Warlow

Amy, Clinical Lead Therapy Radiographer, was joined by her department as she received her award for outstanding support during challenging times. She said: “I’m really lucky because we have an amazing team. We look after each other, and now that we have the new unit, hopefully, we can continue to make things better for our patients. I’m extremely grateful to each member of the team who took the time to nominate me—it really does mean so much.”

Nominate a colleague today

Do you know someone who embodies our values into practice. Help us celebrate their dedication by nominating them for a ViP Award!

Submit your nomination either through StaffHub or on our website and let us continue to recognise the incredible work happening across our Trust every day.