Patients, carers, and members of the public are being encouraged to nominate staff who have gone above and beyond and provided outstanding care, as part of the annual staff awards held by Black Country Healthcare NHS Foundation Trust.

The Black Country Awards for Talent and Achievement are even more special this year, as it is the first staff awards being held as a merged organisation, after Black Country Partnership NHS Foundation Trust and Dudley and Walsall Mental Health Partnership NHS Trust came together in April last year.

Both former trusts took pride in making this event a memorable and fitting occasion, to recognise those who go the extra mile and truly make a difference to the lives of their colleagues and patients, and this year is no exception.

Nominations for a dedicated patient’s choice award are made by patients, carers or families, for an individual or team who have left a lasting impression through their care and expertise. The winner of this award will be supportive, considerate, and compassionate, placing the patient at the heart of everything they do.

This gives patients and families an opportunity to say 'thank you' to those who deserve recognition for everything they do day in, day out – especially during a time when healthcare workers are risking their lives and sacrificing so much to support and care for others.

Voting for the patient’s choice award is now open, and will close on Sunday 7 March. The winner will be revealed at the virtual BAFTA ceremony on Thursday 29 April. Nominations can be made via the BCHFT website.