The Hospital Caterers Association (HCA) presented its 2024 National Awards at a gala reception last night (April 17) during the Annual Leadership & Development Forum, held this year at The Macdonald Aviemore Resort in the Cairngorms National Park.
The HEFMA-sponsored Rising Star Award was won by Clodagh Hastings, Assistant Support Services Manager at the Gransha Hospital, (Western Health & Social Care Trust in Northern Ireland). Clodagh’s ability to swiftly advance through various roles, coupled with her hands-on approach to management and learning, has set her apart as a true leader in the healthcare catering field. The award was presented by HEFMA's National Vice-Chair David Moss.
Rob Strachan, Head of Catering Services for Basingstoke & North Hampshire Hospital was named as the Caterer of the Year in recognition of the significant contribution he has made to the wellbeing and recovery of patients, the patient experience and to staff and visitors who use the services.
Catering Service of the Year went to the Gosport War Memorial Hospital, a team which is said to ‘tick all the boxes of the NHS Principles’ – commitment to quality of care, compassion, improving lives, working together for patients and everyone counts.
Sian Langford, Facilities Compliance Manager at The Robert Jones & Agnes Hunt Hospital won the Leadership Excellence Award for her visionary leadership, dedication to excellence and commitment to her team’s success, which sets her apart as an exemplary role model.
Other awards included two Special Contribution Awards – Karoline Rowlands, of North Bristol NHS Trust and Lord Hunt of Kings Heath, who is this year standing down as HCA President. The Oxford Branch won the Chairman’s Choice Award, NH Case was named Best Trade Stand and the Wilma Wilkie Outstanding Service Award went to HCA National Secretary, Janice Gillan. National Chair, Brian Robb says: “I congratulate all the winners, and those that made this year’s shortlist. They are all shining examples of what is good within hospital catering.”
Speaking after the awards, Janice Gillan said that she was “overwhelmed and humbled” with the recognition. This was echoed by Karoline Rowlands, who said: “This was so unexpected; all I have ever wanted to do was to do my job as best as I can. I have never received such a reward so it will probably sink in over the next few days, but I could not be happier.”
Picture l-r, Awards Host, radio presenter Ali Wright, HEFMA National Secretary and HCA Vice-President Alison McCree (judge), David Moss, Clodagh Hastings, HCA National Chair Brian Robb (judge) and HCA Vice-President Stewart McKenzie.
