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NHS hospital group celebrates AHP workforce at special event

Published: October 16, 2025 in Staff and volunteers, University Hospitals Tees

From L to R, Emma Nunez, Katie Hill and other nominees, Alan Macdonald and Carol Martin

A Teesside hospital group celebrated its incredible allied health professionals (AHPs) workforce to mark their outstanding contributions to local communities.

The AHP Day Awards, which were held at the Riverside Stadium in Middlesbrough, honoured AHPs across University Hospitals Tees who go above and beyond their roles, and provided an opportunity for them to celebrate their achievements.

Allied health professionals are healthcare professionals who provide diagnostic, therapeutic, and rehabilitative services in various healthcare settings and are the third largest clinical workforce in the health and care.

More than a hundred nominations were received for a diverse range of award categories for the prestigious awards.

Occupational therapist Sharon Barker received the group chief AHP outstanding AHP award of the year.

Her achievements were part of a wider project in expanding the development of occupational therapy in critical care – from a single member to an established team helping critically ill patients relive their lives at The James Cook University Hospital.

Occupational therapists like Sharon play a crucial role in assessing and treating patients’ physical, cognitive and psychological needs to improve their functional independence and quality of life.

Sharon said: “It was a real privilege to be nominated with such an amazing group of AHPs. I feel really honoured as it was totally unexpected.

“I would also like to thank the people with whom I work daily and to everyone who has supported me throughout my career.”

Emma Nunez, group chief nursing officer, said: “It was an honour to present the awards to our first-ever University Hospitals Tees AHP Awards.

“I know the valuable contributions each one of our AHPs make every day and reading through the nominations reaffirms my belief in the importance of their roles.

“Congratulations to all the winners and those nominated but also, I would like to take this opportunity to thank every AHP who are on the wards and communities – treating, rehabilitating and improving the lives of patients.

“AHP-themed Dragon’s Den”

Besides the glittery awards event, a special AHP-themed Dragon’s Den event was also held, where AHPs pitched their innovative ideas to the senior leadership team of University Hospitals Tees.

The best winning ideas were offered extensive support and guidance to further develop the plans, with the sole purpose of improving the care of patients in hospitals.

Other AHP Award Winners

Senior specialist physiotherapist, Linda Furness scooped the AHP research award.
Senior specialist physiotherapist, Linda Furness scooped the AHP research award.
Deborah Green
Dietitian Deborah Green picked up the AHP Greener Award for her sustainability efforts.
Congratulations to Hambelton and Richmond outpatient physiotherapy team for taking home the AHP digital award.
Congratulations to Hambleton and Richmond outpatient physiotherapy team for taking home the AHP digital award.
The paediatric occupational therapy services at West Acklam Centre won the AHP innovation and improvement award.
The paediatric occupational therapy services at West Acklam Centre won the AHP innovation and improvement award.
The AHP clinical educator award went to the radiology CPD team.
The AHP clinical educator award went to the radiology CPD team.
Head of occupational therapy, Christina Hartley was the well-deserved winner of the AHP leadership in equality, inclusion and diversity award.
Advanced practice reporting radiographers took home the AHP workforce transformation award.
Advanced practice reporting radiographers took home the AHP workforce transformation award.
Katie Hill
The group chief AHP outstanding AHP support worker award went to Katie Hill.