NCA Annual Awards

The Northern Cancer Alliance Annual Awards celebrate the outstanding individuals, teams, and services across the North East and North Cumbria who go above and beyond to improve cancer care.

Launched in 2023, the awards have grown into a key event for recognising innovation, leadership, and patient-centred care across our region.

This year, we received an incredible 75 nominations across four categories, showcasing the breadth and diversity of work happening to transform cancer services. Judges praised nominees for their commitment to collaboration, creativity, and ensuring the patient voice is at the heart of everything we do.

Beyond celebrating achievements, the awards aim to create a lasting legacy. We’re inviting all nominees to share their work through a community of practice, learn-and-share events, and mentorship opportunities, helping spread innovation and best practice across the system.

2025 Award Winners

Clinical Leadership

• Dr Ruth Sharrock and the HIVE Team, Gateshead Health NHS Foundation Trust.
• Recognised for their dedication to patient care and innovative approaches that have improved clinical outcomes.

Championing the Patient Voice

• Living With Cancer Project Team, South Tyneside and Sunderland NHS Foundation Trust.
• Commended for embedding patient voice in every element of design, delivery, and decision-making.

Quality Improvement & Innovation

• Thoracic Surgical Service, South Tees Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust.
• Celebrated for reducing hospital stays and enhancing ongoing support for patients at home.

Going the Extra Mile (joint winners)

• Maureen Elliott, Live Well With Cancer.
• Honoured for her passion and commitment to improving cancer patients’ health and wellbeing.

• Tammie Dobie, Cancer Care Coordinator, North Cumbria Integrated Care NHS Foundation Trust.
• Recognised for her positive attitude and tireless work to raise awareness of lung cancer screening.