The awards, now in their fourth year, were once again held at Edgbaston Stadium in Birmingham on Thursday 25 June. The event brought colleagues together from across the organisation to celebrate the talent, dedication and compassion shown every day across Cygnet.
It was an opportunity to hear inspiring examples of staff going above and beyond for those in their care, demonstrating exceptional commitment, innovation and teamwork while making a meaningful difference to the lives of some of society’s most vulnerable people.
Most of our categories are nominated by staff, for staff, with the exception of our Service User’s Choice awards, which are open to patients, residents and their families, and the CEO Special Recognition Award.
This year we received more nominations than ever before, with more than 1,200 submissions received from colleagues eager to recognise and celebrate one another’s achievements. Across 16 award categories, finalists represented the very best of Cygnet and the extraordinary work happening across our organisation every day.
The awards ceremony was hosted by BBC Pointless presenter Alexander Armstrong, who guided guests through an afternoon of celebration and recognition. Beyond his distinguished broadcasting career, Alexander has a personal connection to the issues that matter deeply to Cygnet. Having spoken about his experiences as the parent of a son with autism, he has gained a first-hand understanding of the importance of compassionate, specialist support for individuals and their families.
Professor Tony Romero, Group CEO, said: “It is always such a pleasure for me to find out how staff are all making an incredible difference to some of society’s most vulnerable people. The work they are doing, and the care they are providing, has a positive impact on so many lives.
“The awards are about recognising and honouring the dedication, compassion and sheer hard work shown by staff who, no matter their role, play a vital part in the provision of patient and resident care.
“There is so much for us to be proud of as an organisation, and the winners and shortlisted candidates we celebrate today are representatives of the thousands of colleagues across the country who have made a difference in the lives of others.
“Every person who attended has demonstrated outstanding qualities and exemplified our core values of care, trust, integrity, respect and empower. The day was about recognising them, celebrating the difference they make and inspiring one another to keep delivering the very best for those in our care.”
Congratulations to all of our winners, who are listed below.
CEO Special Recognition Award
Selected personally by Professor Tony Romero, this special recognition award honours those who consistently go above and beyond, exemplify the Cygnet values and demonstrate innovation, talent, commitment and resilience.
Winner: Arun Makani, Head of Commercial Finance
Arun was recognised for his incredible contribution to Cygnet and the lasting difference he makes across the organisation.
Care; Joy in Work Award
This award recognises an outstanding commitment to making Cygnet a great place to work.
Winner: Jerome Omesa, Clinical Team Leader, Cygnet Hospital Clifton
Jerome received an astounding 29 nominations and is a phenomenal leader whose legendary “power of presence” shines through. A passionate ambassador for healthcare, he models the human connection that sits at the heart of care.
Respect; Inclusion and Diversity Award
This award honours individuals or teams who promote equality, diversity and inclusion to help make Cygnet a better place for others.
Winner: Riahanna Yearwood-Grazette, HR Manager, Cygnet Hospital Beckton
Riahanna is a tireless champion of equity who seamlessly embeds inclusion into daily practice. Her empathy, respect and commitment to creating psychological safety have made a significant impact on colleagues and workplace culture.
Empower; Mover and Shaker Award
This award recognises those who empower others through inspiration, motivation and action.
Winner: Chisom Onyebilama, Support Worker, Cygnet Newham House
Receiving 12 enthusiastic peer nominations, Chisom transformed her own wellbeing journey into a sustainable programme benefiting both patients and staff, inspiring others to take charge of their health and wellbeing.
Trust; Hand in Hand Award
This award celebrates teams and individuals who demonstrate collaboration, co-production and innovation to improve services.
Winner: Pines Team
The Pines team has created a welcoming and family-like environment where trust, compassion and meaningful engagement thrive. Their commitment to co-production and relationship building continues to transform lives.
Integrity; Hand on Heart Award
This award recognises those who demonstrate integrity in everything they do.
Winner: Maydue Mundia, Senior Support Worker, Oakhurst Lodge
Known for her “heart of gold”, Maydue has set a remarkable standard for leadership, prioritising both staff wellbeing and resident safety through collaboration and compassion.
Delivering Service Improvement; The Gamechanger Award
This award honours those who have made a measurable improvement to quality of care through innovation.
Winner: Cygnet Hospital Stevenage Team
The team developed a pioneering anti-racism programme rooted in co-, helping to drive cultural change and earning recognition at national forums including the National Police Chiefs’ Council.
Innovation for the Future; Positive Impact Award
This award celebrates those creating positive change for communities and the environment.
Winner: Cygnet Hospital Kewstoke Team
The team’s work reviving Kewstoke Community Farm, alongside community partnerships, fundraising initiatives and wellbeing projects, has made a lasting impact both inside and outside the service.
Support Act of the Year Award
This award recognises colleagues who work behind the scenes to support frontline services.
Winner: Kerry Matthews, Colleague Engagement and Wellbeing Lead, HR
Kerry’s innovation, compassion and commitment have had a transformative impact across Cygnet, ensuring colleagues receive meaningful support when they need it most.
Bright Future Award
This award recognises someone who has joined Cygnet within the last year and made an immediate impact.
Winner: Ellie Thomas, Digital Marketing and Social Media Officer
Ellie has transformed Cygnet’s digital presence through creativity, innovation and energy, helping to showcase the incredible work happening across the organisation every day.
Learner of the Year Award
This award celebrates colleagues who have shown dedication to learning and development.
Winner: Kayode Olawoyin, Team Leader, Supported Living in Leeds
Kayode’s commitment to continuous learning has strengthened practice at Gotts Park and created a safer and more responsive environment for service users.
Swan Award
The Swan Award recognises individuals with more than 10 years of service who continue to inspire and make a difference.
Winner: Amanda Jackson, Senior Chef, Trinity House and Trinity Lodge
Celebrating 24 years of service, Amanda was recognised for her dedication, creativity and passion for empowering others through personalised care and mentoring.
All Star Service User’s Choice Award – Social Care
Chosen by social care service users, residents and their families, this award recognises exceptional care.
Winner: Clynsaer
Led by Stacey James, the team at Clynsaer was recognised for delivering deeply compassionate care and creating a safe, warm and joyful environment where people can thrive.
All Star Service User’s Choice Award – Health Care
Chosen by healthcare service users and families, this award recognises exceptional care and support.
Winner: West Hampton Ward, Cygnet Bury Hudson
The team received eight nominations from grateful service users and was recognised for creating a respectful and highly therapeutic environment that empowers recovery.
Social Care Service of the Year
This award recognises outstanding social care services delivering exceptional care.
Winner: Langdale House
Recently rated ‘Outstanding’ by the CQC, Langdale House continues to set the standard for excellence through innovation, inclusivity and personalised care.
Health Care Service of the Year
This award recognises outstanding healthcare services delivering exceptional care.
Winner: Cygnet Hospital Colchester
The team was praised for its empathy, compassion and commitment to helping individuals move forward with confidence and hope.
Huge congratulations to all of our winners and shortlisted finalists. Thank you for the dedication, compassion and commitment you bring every day to improving the lives of the people in our care.
