Our Allied Health Professionals (AHPs) have achieved outstanding success, winning four awards at the Mid and South Essex (MSE) Celebration Event, hosted by the MSE Integrated Care Board (ICB) on 6 October 2025.

Scott Baker, Chief AHP from MSE ICB, noted that this year saw a record-breaking number of nominations, highlighting the incredible work being carried out across the MSE region. We are proud that NELFT AHPs were recognised among such exceptional talent.

Our winners demonstrated excellence across a range of categories:

• Collaborative Award, Beatrice Senhouse. For championing our AHP support workforce, creating forums for peer support, and ensuring NELFT voices are represented regionally.
• Inclusive & Compassionate Award, Rodrigo Sacristan Perez. For his kindness, professionalism, and unwavering dedication to patients and colleagues – going above and beyond, even during personally challenging times.
• Innovative Award, Rachel Levi & Nicola Warden. Rachel was recognised for leading a Quality Improvement project that has transformed access to rehabilitation and frailty services. Nikki was commended for her collaborative work with pharmacy to deliver safer, more sustainable care, enhancing patient safety and reducing avoidable hospital admissions.
• We also extend our congratulations to Neelam Halari, nominated in the Inclusive & Compassionate category for her exemplary work as a dietitian in the stroke rehabilitation team, and to Chigozie Nweze, who was nominated for AHP of the Year for her remarkable contribution as an Occupational Therapy Assistant on Thorndon Ward.

Looking ahead, we’re thrilled that two of our Essex-based AHPs have been shortlisted for regional awards this November:

• Chigozie Nweze – AHP Support Worker of the Year. Recognised for her proactive approach as an associate educator and for being a shining role model whose care brings comfort and confidence to patients.
• Sarah Lines – AHP Apprentice of the Year. Nominated by her team for her exceptional commitment to balancing full-time study, a busy family life, and her training to become a registered Occupational Therapist. Sarah’s achievement in joining our registered AHP workforce is a testament to her dedication and passion.

Both Chigozie and Sarah were shortlisted from an incredible 650 applicants, an achievement in itself. The ceremony is the 18th November at Kensington Town Hall. We have everything crossed for their success.

Director for AHPs, Jo Tyler, said: 

“I’m so proud to see our NELFT colleagues recognised at the MSE AHP Celebration. Beatrice, Rodrigo, Rachel and Nikki are fantastic examples of the impact AHPs make every day, from championing our support workforce and embedding inclusive, compassionate care, to driving innovation that improves safety, outcomes, and sustainability. Alongside this, we’ve also had colleagues nominated and shortlisted for the Capital AHP Awards, an achievement in itself and a real reflection of the talent and commitment across NELFT. These honours highlight not just individual brilliance, but the collective strength of our AHP workforce. Congratulations and thank you for inspiring us all.”