HPFT colleagues shortlisted for Advancing Healthcare Awards

09 Apr 25

We are delighted to share the news that 2 of our HPFT colleagues from our occupational therapy team have been shortlisted for the prestigious Advancing Healthcare Awards.

A woman wearing a striped shirt with a bird perched on her shoulder, standing in front of a building with windows and some plants. On the right side, there is a pink graphic with white text that reads: "United Kingdom Advancing Healthcare Awards 2025".

Michela Clarke, Senior Occupational Therapist, has been shortlisted for the Rising Stars award. She was nominated by Caroline Finch, Head of Allied Health Professionals for the Adult Acute and Urgent Care Division.

Caroline shares:

“Michela has been nominated for her positive and innovative attitude to care, and her ability to quickly build relationships with people who may struggle to connect at first.

“She persistently shows passion and enthusiasm in her role, and she thinks outside the box to support people with severe mental health conditions to meet their goals.”

A woman standing outdoors, wearing a brown shirt and an NHS lanyard. On the left side, there is a pink graphic with white text that reads: "United Kingdom Advancing Healthcare Awards 2025".

Anna Szurlej, Occupational Therapy Recreational Worker, has been shortlisted for the award for outstanding achievement by an apprentice, support worker or non-registered technician in an AHP or healthcare science service. She was nominated by Emily Boyce, Occupational Therapy Professional Lead for Acute and Urgent Care.

Emily shares:

“Anna naturally keeps the service user at the core and approaches her work with empathy and purpose.

“When people first come to stay at an inpatient unit, they often feel disoriented, frightened, and upset – however, Anna has made a huge difference to their experiences in a time of crisis for them.

“Anna improves people’s quality of life, with people describing her as a ‘beacon of light’.”

Congratulations Michela and Anna and thank you for everything you do!

The Advancing Healthcare Awards recognise the work of allied health professionals, healthcare scientists and those who work alongside them in support roles. Its purpose is to celebrate and promote innovative practice that colleagues do to improve care.

The awards ceremony will take place in London on Friday 23 May. You can view the full shortlist here.

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HPFT colleagues shortlisted for Advancing Healthcare Awards