For the win: Epsom and St Helier shortlisted for prestigious HSJ award

Epsom and St Helier hospitals have been shortlisted in the Compassionate Patient Care category at the Health Service Journal (HSJ) Awards for their Patient First programme – an initiative that helps to ensure each and every patient is at the absolute centre of how the hospitals work.

Jackie Sullivan, Chief Operating Officer and the Executive lead for the Patient First programme, said: “Being shortlisted for a HSJ award is really exciting, and we are delighted to have made it to this point. It reinforces our view that Patient First is an innovative movement that empowers our staff to make improvements for our patients. We are especially proud to have been shortlisted in the Compassionate Patient Care category – providing high quality, compassionate care to the people who need us is exactly what we are here for.

“We know that we’re up against some strong competition and still have to impress a panel of well-respected judges to win, but this is a very exciting time for us and we can’t wait for the next stage.”

The awards were created in 1981 to recognise, on a national platform, the projects and initiatives that deliver healthcare excellence and innovation. By shining a spotlight on cutting-edge innovations and best practice, the awards give impetus to improving the quality of health care in the UK.

This year, more than 600 unique organisations submitted over 1,600 entries. The shortlisted organisations now have to complete presentations and interviews to a specific judging panel made up of senior and influential figures from the health sector.

The programme, which won a national award earlier this summer at the HPMA (Healthcare People Management Association) awards, was developed in partnership with BeBop Consulting Limited. Cherry McCormack, Director at BeBop Consulting, said: “I am so proud that the amazing work that everyone at Epsom and St Helier has done to improve the patient experience is being recognized. It is very rewarding to see that the Patient First programme is helping staff to make a difference every day.”