NHS team tops national communications awards

The communications team at NHS Heywood, Middleton and Rochdale won the ‘outstanding team’ award at this year’s National NHS Communications Awards.

The team was only formed in January this year and has achieved a huge amount having developed a new PCT website and corporate brand, produced a healthy lifestyles promotional film and two web podcasts, organised a visit from the Secretary of State for health, developed campaigns for two area-wide public consultations and planned Rochdale’s first joint health day with Rochdale Council.

Communications and marketing manager Zoe O’Neill heads up the team, which comprises Laura Baker and Sally Bruce as communications officers and Emma Cain as team secretary, while Chris Wright, head of corporate services, provides strategic input.

Nadine Powell, executive director of corporate affairs, said: “Above all else, they are a team and work really hard to achieve excellent results and this award is a true reflection of their hard work.

"NHS HMR strives to steer and lead the local health agenda in the borough and my communications team is pivotal in stimulating discussion on community health matters. Through their work, we demonstrate we are listening to the people of Rochdale, our partners and our staff. Our recent ‘Speak Up’ work is testament to that.

"Zoe and her team help our managers signal the future priorities of the local NHS in a simple way using modern and professional communications methods providing expert advice and guidance at every level.”