Ayrshire locals can reward their ‘health heroes’ as NHS Ayrshire and Arran bring back  awards that celebrate their staff's hard work.

Members of the public can nominate NHS employees or health and social care workers throughout Ayrshire who have impacted and changed their lives for an Ayrshire Achieves award.

The seven awards up for grabs include caring for people, caring for each other, shining stars, thinking out of the box, collaboration and working together, making a difference with digital, and behind the scenes.

CEO of NHS Ayrshire and Arran, Claire Burden, said: “Every day we hear examples of our dedicated staff going the extra mile.

“They don’t do this in anticipation of awards, it is because they are committed to providing safe and high-quality care in all that they do.

“This is an opportunity for all of us, and members of the public to say, ‘You left an impression on me, and thank you!’ “So, if you know of someone who deserves to be recognised, why not nominate them for an award?”

The award ceremony is set to be held on June 1 of this year.

Last taking place in 2019, the awards were put on hold for the past four years due to the covid-19 pandemic.

The reintroduction of the awards aims to “applaud excellence and innovation” and celebrate achievements and improvements within Ayrshire’s NHS.

Chair of Ayrshire and Arran’s NHS Board, Lesley Bowie, said: “As a result of the COVID-19 pandemic, it has been almost four years since we were able to host the award scheme.

“Now that we can get together in a shared space it will be fantastic to recognise and celebrate the many wonderful people, projects and plans that represent the purpose, values and commitments of our organisation.”

For more information and to fill out an entry form, visit www.nhsaaa.net/ayrshireachieves or call 0800 169 1441.