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The All Star Awards shine a spotlight on innovation, dedication, and excellence in care across the organisation, and this year’s winners included outstanding individuals and teams who went above and beyond to drive meaningful progress and make a lasting impact on the patients and communities they serve.

This year’s prestigious ‘Clinical Team of the Year’ award was presented to the outstanding team at Jubilee Ward, a 16-patient rehabilitation ward in Slough. The team were recognised for their unwavering commitment to compassionate care and team cohesion during a period of significant change. The team focuses on delivering high-quality care, supporting one another, and maintaining a positive environment for patients.

It was the One Team Project which took the Bill Johnston Innovation Award home. A new category created in honour of colleague Bill Johnston, former Associate Director of Digital Transformation, who sadly passed away earlier this year, the award recognises and celebrates implementation of new ideas, creative problem solving and championing innovation.

The One Team Project was launched to enhance access, treatment, experience, and outcomes for those who depend on the Trust’s mental health services. At its core, this initiative is powered by genuine collaboration across the organisation, with every individual within the team playing a vital role in driving meaningful transformation, always placing patients and carers at the centre of their work.

Lived Experience Practitioner Lore Cunningham received the Non-Clinical Colleague Award and was commended for his enthusiasm and passion for using his lived experience to support others struggling with their mental health. He actively supports new lived experience workers, and over the past year, has created new opportunities for peer support, launching the popular ‘Coffee & Chat’ group at East Berkshire Safe Haven. His inclusive and welcoming approach has drawn in individuals who had never engaged with groups before, creating a safe and joyful space.

The coveted Volunteer of the Year Award went to the Gardening Team at West Berkshire Community Hospital. Made up of 15 volunteers, the team tend to two Therapy Gardens, amongst other planted areas around the hospital. Come rain or shine, they oversee every aspect of the gardens, from planting and pruning to fundraising through plant sales. They work closely with the hospital’s chef to grow a variety of fruit, vegetables, and herbs that are incorporated into meals served in the hospital café. Promoting mental wellbeing is at the heart of the work the Garden team do. They are mindful of creating outdoor spaces that are inviting and peaceful for staff, patients, and their families.

Chief Executive, Julian Emms, said:

“The All Star Awards is a highlight in the Berkshire Healthcare calendar. As the NHS continues to face mounting pressures, initiatives like the All Star Awards present an opportunity to spotlight the dedication and hard work of the people whose efforts truly change lives. From individual triumphs to team achievements, the stories shared on the night highlight how our people are the driving force behind Berkshire Healthcare’s success. They are what make it a great place to get care, and a great place to give care.”

Award winners

The complete list of award winners is as follows:

  • Volunteer of the Year: Gardening Team
  • Clinical Colleague of the Year: Anna Maguire
  • Non-Clinical Colleague: Lore Cunningham
  • Excellence in Practice: Heart Function Team (East)
  • Respect for Everyone: Community Learning Disability Teams
  • Clinical Team of The Year: Jubilee Ward
  • Non-Clinical Team of the Year: The Temporary Staffing Team
  • Bill Johnston Innovation: One Team
  • People's Choice Award: Laura Hodgson