UHP volunteer has been honoured in the 2024 NHS Parliamentary Awards
Last week, NHS staff across the South West celebrated the remarkable achievements of staff and volunteers who have won regional categories in this year's NHS Parliamentary Awards, after being nominated by their local MPs. 
UHP volunteer Lyndsey Withers was nominated by Luke Pollard MP and was awarded The Volunteer Award. Lyndsey was nominated for her voluntary work across Plymouth. Aside from her work at UHP as a volunteer and Patient Safety Partner, it also includes her work at the Plymouth University Faculty of Health as a community research partner and Medical School student mentor, with Plymouth Soup Run and Shekinah’s drop-in centre for people affected by homelessness and other disadvantages, and past efforts with the Salvation Army where, among other wellbeing initiatives, she collaborated with GP and hospital staff to encourage hostel residents to test for hepatitis C.
The Parliamentary Awards comments on Lyndsey being chosen for the award, stating: “Lyndsey Withers has been chosen in recognition of her dedication and selfless contribution to improving the health and lives of some of the most-vulnerable people in Plymouth.
“She exemplifies the true spirit of volunteerism, dedicating her time to numerous projects that span a number of sectors - including the NHS, primary care, social care, academic and research sectors - to inspire and make positive change for citizens, patients and staff.
“Lyndsey acts locally but her impact has been far-reaching as she is willing to share knowledge and expertise that empower others to replicate initiatives and contribute to research projects, leading to lasting improvements in health outcomes and ensuring that a patient voice is heard at all times”
Lyndsey discussed her winning the regional category, saying: “It’s a privilege to receive the regional award. I care passionately about health equity and hope that the award will give further visibility to local efforts to support the most disadvantaged people in our community and advance our collective ambition for them to lead healthier purposeful lives.”
Elizabeth O’Mahony, Regional Director of NHS England in the South West, said: “Every year, I’m delighted to see our dedicated staff and volunteers across the South West receive this well-deserved recognition.
“I’d like to congratulate every one of the winners and thank all the MPs who have taken the time to acknowledge the exceptional work happening in their constituencies.
All winners will now go on to represent the South West in the national awards ceremony, alongside those from other English regions, at the prestigious Queen Elizabeth II Centre in Westminster on Monday 14 October.
