
Stockport is delighted to have several finalists among this year’s shortlist for the Greater Manchester Health and Care Champion Awards.
Now in their sixth year, the awards are organised by NHS Greater Manchester and have received a record-breaking number of nominations. These celebrate the incredible individuals and teams who work tirelessly on the frontlines and behind-the-scenes to improve the health and wellbeing of others.
Nearly 700 nominations were received from over 140 organisations, each highlighting an extraordinary story from our employed and unwaged workforce.
Among those from Stockport being recognised with a shortlisting include:
- Viaduct Care has been nominated in the Employer/Workplace of the Year category for creating an inclusive, supporting and empowering workplace while delivering high quality care. Viaduct Care promotes openness and staff engagement through initiatives like ‘Ask Me Anything’ sessions and employee-led focus groups focused on wellbeing, diversity and inclusion.
- The Pure Innovations bakery team have been recognised in the Team of the Year category for transforming a small cafe into a thriving commercial kitchen. Most of the team members are neurodivergent or have a learning disability, and they’ve created an inclusive environment while supporting their local community. They supply local businesses, cater events, and donate fresh bread to a homelessness charity.
- Laura Burgess, a homeless hospital discharge advocate for Stockport NHS Foundation Trust has been shortlisted as a Rising Star for her tireless support of patients who are homeless or at risk of homelessness. Laura connects people with housing, financial, and social support services, helping to break cycles of harm and guiding patients toward healthier, more fulfilled lives.
- Philippa Johnson, deputy place based lead for Stockport, NHS Greater Manchester is a Leadership Champion finalist for her commitment to creating a positive, people-focused workplace culture. Known for her approachable nature and open-door policy, Philippa has boosted staff morale through events like baking competitions and quizzes; improved services by reducing patient stays, and is working closely with partners including Stockport NHS Foundation Trust and local councils to shape better healthcare for local people.
- Sabah Chughtai, practice support pharmacist at Viaduct Care, is shortlisted in the Equalities Champion category for her commitment to equality, diversity and inclusion (EDI). As an EDI champion, Sabah encourages open conversations about mental health and emotional resilience, helping to normalise these discussions and foster a safe, inclusive space for her colleagues.
All shortlisted nominations will be considered by a judging panel and the winners announced at a special sponsored event in July.
Mark Fisher, Chief Executive, NHS Greater Manchester said:
“The awards continue to be an exceptional opportunity to recognise the dedication and passion of our health and care workforce across Greater Manchester. The awards are a great reminder of the all the inspirational work our staff and local health and care organisations are doing to support our communities and the health and wellbeing of our residents.
“Congratulations to those shortlisted this year, and I look forward to celebrating alongside you at the ceremony.”
Andy Burnham, Mayor of Greater Manchester said:
“It’s fantastic to see the Greater Manchester Health and Care Champion Awards are back again for their sixth year. The variety of individuals and teams shortlisted across Greater Manchester is outstanding – from a hospital planting trees, charities helping the homeless, personal training to support mental health, and a sexual health team addressing health inequalities.
“I’m really pleased that they are getting the recognition they deserve, and I’m proud to celebrate those who are making a difference.”