GLOUCESTERSHIRE residents will get their chance to nominate their NHS heroes as entries officially open today for the Gloucestershire NHS70 Awards.
The awards are a chance to celebrate outstanding care and community support.
Health professionals will also be able to nominate their colleagues or teams.
In recognition of 70 years of the NHS, categories are open to people who are currently working in, or alongside the NHS, or those who may have retired from service, but have made a lasting impression for their care, compassion or innovative practice.
The awards recognise care and support in people’s homes, GP surgeries, communities and in hospitals – both physical health and mental health.
A total of 13 categories also celebrate community partnerships, development of active, healthy communities, equality and diversity and innovation.
There are also special awards for young professionals (NHS Futures) and lifetime achievement.
The nominations process will culminate in a special awards evening in September at Cheltenham Racecourse.
Clinical chair of NHS Gloucestershire Clinical Commissioning Group, Dr Andy Seymour said: “This is a fitting way to celebrate 70 years of the NHS here in Gloucestershire.
"It’s a great opportunity for the public to show their support by nominating someone today.”
Joint chair of Gloucestershire Care Services NHS Trust and 2gether NHS Foundation Trust, Ingrid Barker said: “Every year thousands of people across our county need both physical and mental health care and support.
"These awards are a great way to highlight the dedication, commitment and resilience of these very caring and special staff and teams who often work under great pressure.
"The NHS70 Awards are also about celebrating how far the service has come.”
Chair of South Western Ambulance Service NHS Foundation Trust, Tony Fox said: “These awards are about celebrating excellence in health and the individuals and teams who provide outstanding care and support in local communities, day and night.
"It’s a great way of highlighting the fantastic work that is being done across Gloucestershire for the benefit of patients and the public."
Nominations can be made via the awards website at: gloucestershirenhs70awards.co.uk
Entries close August 24.
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