In the lead-up to the NHS Lanarkshire Staff Awards 2026, we are shining a spotlight on the exceptional individuals and teams shortlisted for this year’s awards.
The third finalist in our spotlight series is the Frailty Assessment Unit at University Hospital Wishaw – a new team with a clear purpose: to give frail older people the right care at the right time and help them return home safely as soon as possible.
The unit opened during a demanding winter period, before every post had been filled. Faced with the challenges of establishing a new service, staff came together, found solutions and kept patient-centred care at the heart of every decision.
Each day, colleagues from different professions and agencies work together to assess patients quickly and agree care plans that can prevent long hospital stays.
The team’s daily multidisciplinary meetings demonstrate the trust its members have built in a remarkably short time. Colleagues listen to one another, respect each professional contribution and are willing to blend roles when that is what a patient needs.
Their commitment and collaborative approach are already helping older people spend less time in hospital and return home safely at the earliest opportunity.
The Frailty Assessment Unit has been shortlisted in recognition of the team’s resilience, mutual respect and determination to continue improving care for frail older people across Lanarkshire.
The NHS Lanarkshire Staff Awards ceremony will take place on Wednesday 7 October 2026.
Look out for our next finalist spotlight as we continue the countdown to the ceremony.
