Stockport NHS heroes celebrated at 2025 Pennine Care People Awards

NHS mental health and learning disability staff in Stockport and other areas of Greater manchester have been recognised for their care and dedication at the Pennine Care People Awards.

Nine awards were given out to teams and individuals who work for Pennine Care NHS Foundation Trust, which provides mental health, learning disability and autism services across Stockport and other areas of Greater Manchester.

In its fourth year, with all costs covered by sponsorship, 400 guests enjoyed a jam-packed evening, hosted by radio and TV presenter Stephanie Hirst. This included 27 award finalists, who were selected from over 500 nominations, with winners including colleagues and teams based in Stockport.

Dr Jon Ford, resident doctor in general adult psychiatry, was crowned colleague of the year. Based Stockport’s Stepping Hill Hospital, Jon was nominated for his rare combination of quiet strength, compassion, and reliability. He doesn’t seek recognition; he simply gets things done with calm professionalism and genuine care. Whether stepping in at short notice, supporting colleagues, or reassuring patients, Jon consistently puts others first. His empathy, adaptability, and unwavering dedication make him truly exceptional.

Vanessa Moreland, ward manager of Woodbank Psychiatric Intensive Care Unit, was selected as this year’s inspirational leader.  Also based at Stepping Hill Hospital, she was nominated for being an inspiring and compassionate leader who has shaped a truly exceptional, person-centred service. Guided by kindness, fairness, and innovation, she’s created a culture of safety, teamwork, and care where both staff and patients feel valued and supported. Her calm strength, empathy, and vision make her a truly inspirational leader.

Nominations for the community choice category are from patients, carers, partners or someone from the wider community. The winner was Abhinav Kokilagadda, physiotherapy team manager and clinical lead, Stockport community learning disability service. Abhinav supported Delores along with her sister and carer Rita, following a hip fracture, and more recently after a neurological diagnosis. He was nominated for being kind, patient, and understanding. He listens, adapts, and always makes Delores feel seen and capable. Abhi has transformed her life, helping her regain confidence, independence, and hope.

The great improvement award went to the five living well services which cover Stockport; Tameside and Glossop; Bury; Heywood, Middleton and Rochdale; and Oldham. They were nominated for bridging the gap for people whose needs are too complex for primary care but not enough for specialist mental health care. They’re closing the gap by uniting NHS staff, GPs, social workers, voluntary, community and social enterprise colleagues and others. Their ‘no wrong door’ approach has improved care and experience for thousands of people, transforming lives and offering hope for the future.

A series of short but powerful films showcased the finalists’ life-changing contributions, alongside a heartfelt patient thank-you video and moving tribute to Stockport nurse Erika Slater, who passed away last year.  She was nominated for a ray of sunshine award in recognition of bringing sunshine, care and compassion into the lives of patients, families, and colleagues for over 50 years.

Pennine Care chief executive Anthony Hassall said:

“Our Pennine Care People Awards is a powerful reminder of what makes our organisation so special. Our incredible colleagues are the beating heart of the NHS. In the face of ongoing challenges, their compassion, innovation, and resilience continue to change lives every day.

“Hearing so many inspiring stories and seeing the pride in the room showed just how much extraordinary work happens across our services. With more than 500 nominations this year, tonight offered a small but moving snapshot of the dedication, talent, and care that our people bring to our communities, and I am immensely proud of every one of our Pennine Care People.”

Claudette Elliott, Pennine Care chair, added:

“The room was filled with warmth, hope, and pride. It was truly uplifting and reminded me exactly why Pennine Care holds such a special place in my heart.

“I’ve had the privilege of working alongside some of the most compassionate, committed, and skilled people I’ve ever known. As a former auxiliary nurse and social worker, I understand how demanding frontline care can be – yet our colleagues continue to show up, care deeply, and make a difference every single day. Because of them, patients, carers, and families are never alone and always have hope for a brighter future.”

Reflecting on the evening, host, Stephanie Hirst said:

“It was an absolute honour to be part of such a special celebration. The stories were deeply moving and uplifting – shining a light on the strength, dedication, and compassion that defined everyone in the room. Being able to witness that impact first-hand has been incredibly humbling.”

The full list of winners and finalists can be found online here.