Colleagues from across NHS Lanarkshire came together on Wednesday 8 October for an evening of celebration, pride and inspiration at the 2025 Staff Awards.
The annual ceremony recognised the outstanding individuals and teams who go above and beyond every day to deliver compassionate care, innovative improvement and exceptional support across Lanarkshire’s health services.
Held at South Lanarkshire Council Headquarters, the event provided an opportunity for colleagues to come together — to celebrate one another’s achievements and reflect on the shared values that define NHS Lanarkshire.
Hosted by radio presenter Gina McKie, the evening opened with a welcome from Calvin Brown, Executive Director of Communications, followed by remarks from Martin Hill, Chair, and Caroline Lamb, Chief Executive of NHS Scotland.
Guests enjoyed uplifting performances from the newly formed NHS Lanarkshire Staff Orchestra and the inspiring Ups and Downs Theatre Group, whose music and energy captured the joy and creativity that set the tone for the night.
Throughout the evening, finalists were recognised across ten categories, each reflecting the compassion, innovation and teamwork that staff bring to their roles every day.
Louise Long, Chief Executive of NHS Lanarkshire, said: “Our Staff Awards are one of the true highlights of the year because they give us a moment to pause and celebrate the incredible people who make NHS Lanarkshire such a special organisation.
“The stories we heard on the night were moving and inspirational — stories of compassion shown in the most challenging circumstances, of teams working together to find new solutions, and of colleagues who go the extra mile every single day without ever seeking recognition.
“What struck me most was the sense of pride in the room. Every finalist and nominee represented the very best of our organisation — people who care deeply about their patients, their colleagues and their communities.
“It was wonderful to see colleagues from every part of NHS Lanarkshire united in celebration of what we achieve together. I couldn’t be prouder of the dedication, professionalism and kindness that define our staff and the difference they make every day.”
Martin Hill, Chair of NHS Lanarkshire, added: “Each year, our Staff Awards remind us what makes NHS Lanarkshire so special — our people. The dedication, professionalism and compassion shown by our colleagues, in every role and every setting, is truly remarkable.
“What stands out to me is the teamwork that underpins everything we do. Whether it’s delivering care at the bedside, supporting patients and families in the community, or working behind the scenes to keep our hospitals running, every individual contributes to the success of our organisation.
“The stories we heard at this year’s awards were humbling and inspiring in equal measure. They reflected innovation, collaboration and genuine care for others — qualities that lie at the heart of our NHS.
“I was incredibly proud to join colleagues in celebrating these achievements and in recognising the collective strength, compassion and commitment that define NHS Lanarkshire.”
The evening recognised excellence across ten categories:
• Excellence in Care and Compassion – Maureen Allan
• Innovation and Improvement – Anne Marie Bruce and Susan Short
• Outstanding Team Collaboration (Clinical) – The Holistic Antenatal Care Pathway Team
• Outstanding Team Collaboration (Non-Clinical) – Improving the Cancer Journey Team
• Unsung Hero (Clinical) – Craig Graham
• Unsung Hero (Non-Clinical) – Pauline Ferula
• Volunteer Contribution – Gordon Brown
• William Cullen Prize – Dr Laura McGregor
• Chair’s Award – Helen Gibson
• Chief Executive’s Award – Dr Farhat Mushtaq
The awards reflect NHS Lanarkshire’s core values — care and compassion, dignity and respect, openness, honesty and responsibility, quality and teamwork — and the people who bring those values to life every day.
The success of this year’s event would not have been possible without the generous support of our key sponsors — Salus, GMB, Unison, Unite, NHS Credit Union and Bespoke Touches. Their continued partnership and commitment are greatly appreciated and help us to celebrate the incredible dedication of NHS Lanarkshire’s staff.
