Celebrating our 2026 winners
Thank you to everyone who took part in our tenth anniversary edition of Our Health Heroes. With nominations now closed, we’re proud to have showcased the incredible contributions of the wider healthcare workforce.
The winners were announced at the awards ceremony held on 17 June 2026.
Our Health Heroes remains the only awards programme designed to celebrate the wider healthcare workforce that supports our doctors and nurses on the frontline.
If you have any questions about the awards please email [email protected].
About the Awards
The national awards for the healthcare workforce, Our Health Heroes recognises and honours the hard work carried out daily by thousands of staff across the UK.
Nearly half of the healthcare workforce is made up of support staff who play a vital role in the delivery of patient care, and improving the lives of the communities they serve. The awards are a perfect opportunity to celebrate their contributions.
Award categories
Apprentice of the Year
Celebrates rising stars – those who go above and beyond in their role, and act as advocates for apprenticeships to those considering their future careers, whether in clinical or operational roles.
Proudly sponsored by SFJ Awards
Open pageBest Healthcare Collaboration
Rewards partnerships and collaborative efforts that bring organisations together to improve patient care and workforce wellbeing. This could include joint initiatives between NHS trusts, emergency services, and social care providers.
Open page
Clinical Support Worker of the Year
Recognises individuals who provide hands-on care under the supervision of registered healthcare professionals. These nominees go above and beyond to deliver compassionate, high-quality support to patients every day.
Open pageDedication to Lifelong Learning
Celebrates organisations or teams that champion continuous professional development, creating opportunities for staff to learn, grow, and thrive throughout their careers.
Proudly sponsored by iCQ Awards
Open page
Digital Innovation Award
Honours individuals or teams who use technology creatively to transform healthcare delivery, whether by improving patient care, streamlining processes, or enhancing workforce efficiency.
Proudly sponsored by NHS Shared Business Services
Open pageEquity, Diversity and Inclusion Champion
Recognises individuals or teams who actively promote equality, diversity, and inclusion within health and social care. This award celebrates initiatives that create fair, respectful, and inclusive environments for staff and patients.
Open page
Healthcare Manager of the Year
Celebrates outstanding leadership and management outside of registered clinical roles such as doctors or nurses. This award is for managers in support functions who inspire teams, drive innovation, and ensure services operate effectively.
Open pageHealthcare Volunteer of the Year
This award celebrates individuals who generously give their time to support health and social care services. From patient companions to hospital radio presenters, these volunteers make a meaningful difference to the lives of patients and staff.
Open pageOperational Support Worker of the Year
Recognises those working in essential non-clinical roles (such as receptionists, porters, facilities staff, and administrators) who keep healthcare services running smoothly and efficiently behind the scenes.
Open pageOutstanding Lifetime Contribution to Healthcare
Honours individuals who have dedicated their careers to improving health and social care. This award is for those whose long-standing commitment and exceptional service have left a lasting impact on the sector.
Proudly sponsored by NHS Employers
Open pagePrevious partners and sponsors
We are grateful for the support of our previous sponsors and partners for these awards. We simply couldn’t run these awards without them! If you’re interested in partnering with us in the future, explore our partnership opportunities now.
Media partner
Some of our 2026 winners
Our Health Heroes Awards
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