The communications team at The Princess Alexandra Hospital NHS Trust (PAHT) has won a national award.
The team received the accolade of Best Event at the Institute of Internal Communication Awards on Friday, September 24. They were recognised for their work on Events not in a tent, a spectacular staff recognition and health and wellbeing events programme. Additionally, they were a finalist in the category of Best COVID response for their strong focus on engagement with people across PAHT during the COVID-19 pandemic.
From Monday, 28 September 2020, to Wednesday, 30 September 2020, the hospital invited its people to take part in a series of virtual events, which they could join from their desk or from home. The three day programme gave staff the opportunity and platform to share ideas, develop new initiatives, hear about the support and benefits available, and build relationships from across PAHT. This was in place of the highlight of the annual calendar at PAHT – Event in a tent – in which a series of events are held in a marquee on The Princess Alexandra Hospital site every September.
A highlight of the three days was a special virtual guest appearance from Ruth May, chief nursing officer for England, who thanked the nursing, midwifery and allied health professional teams for their commitment. Staff also took part in sessions on emotional resilience, mindfulness and supporting their mental health with Alexis Powell-Howard from the multi-award winning Fortis Therapy and Training. They had the opportunity to learn more about quality improvement at PAHT, the culture at the organisation, and a session on careers in nursing, midwifery and the allied health professions with speakers from across PAHT and from the NHS regional team. Additionally, staff could find out more about celebrating equality, diversity and inclusion, as part of PAHT’s continued commitment to ensuring that all of its people feel supported. Staff also enjoyed some spectacular award ceremonies for long service colleagues and the Our Amazing People Awards for all to attend.
Ogechi Emeadi, director of people, organisational development and communications, said: “I am absolutely delighted that our communications team have been recognised nationally.
“It is testament to their dedication to keeping our people informed and connected during the COVID-19 pandemic.
“We are looking forward to continuing to build on this amazing work for the future.”
- Photo caption: The communications team at The Princess Alexandra Hospital NHS Trust (clockwise: Laura Warren, associate director of communications; Lauren Nash, head of communications; Massimo Di Muccio, digital communications manager; and Hannah Hobbs, communications officer).