The NHS Sheffield Clinical Commissioning Group (CCG) employee beat off stiff competition from across Yorkshire and Humber and will now go to a public vote with other finalists from across the country for the national ‘Health Hero’ title.

Michelle was nominated for her work with the CCG staff engagement group to introduce an annual health and wellbeing week for staff which saw staff able to attend health information stalls, sessions and talks during their breaks. After the success of the week, Michelle then introduced a number of lunch time and after work health and wellbeing programmes for CCG staff, including a weight management course, Tai Chi sessions, a walking club and meditation sessions. She has also organised a number of lunchtime talks and health sessions for staff including mental health awareness and blood pressure checks.

Michelle said, “I was surprised and flattered when I found out the CCG had nominated me, and that I was the regional winner but it is such a privilege to be representing the region at the national awards. Staff health and wellbeing is big priority for my workplace so it has been fantastic to be able to work with staff to find out what initiatives they would be interested in and then take that forward and make it happen.”

Maddy Ruff, Accountable Officer at NHS Sheffield CCG said, “I think I am speaking on behalf of the whole CCG when I say that we are delighted that Michelle has won this award.  

“It is so important that staff are provided with an environment and opportunities that encourage and enable them to lead healthy lives and make choices that support their wellbeing. Michelle and the staff engagement group have really helped make this happen.

“We hope everyone votes for Michelle as she goes to the public vote for the national award.”

The overall winner will partly be decided by public vote which opens on 31 October.

You can vote for Michelle by visiting the Skills for Health website here: www.skillsforhealth.org.uk/ohh-vote and clicking ‘Operational Support Worker of the Year’ and choosing Michelle. Voting closes 14th November 2016.