Two individuals and two healthcare teams from Forth Valley have scooped top awards at the Scottish Health Awards 2016 in recognition of their invaluable contribution to Scottish healthcare.

Sharon Coggins, an additional support midwife practitioner at Forth Valley Royal Hospital, took home the Midwife Award. Sharon’s caring approach and vast knowledge ensure that the families she is involved with receive the best possible care. She goes above and beyond the call of duty on a regular basis and is a role model to students and her colleagues.

Charlotte Ritson, a student nurse from the University of Stirling and NHS Forth Valley, won the Young Achiever Award due to her inspiring leadership and determination to improve healthcare practice. Charlotte is passionate about her profession and is a rising star within the NHS.

In addition, the mental health nurses at Kersiebank and Bannockburn GP Practices were named as the winners of the Care for Mental Health Award and Fiona Donnelly and the Primary Care Team at HMP Glenochil took home the Integrated Care for Older People Award.

Jane Grant, Chief Executive of NHS Forth Valley, said: “I am delighted that the work of our staff has been recognised with these prestigious awards.  Their hard work, dedication and commitment has significantly improved local health services and made a real difference to patients. I would also like to congratulate all six finalists from the Forth Valley area who fought off stiff competition from across Scotland to make it to the finals.”

 Every year, the Scottish Health Awards recognise and reward the dedicated NHS staff, support workers, volunteers and specialist teams who go the extra mile to provide outstanding patient care.

To view the full list of winners, or for more information, please visit www.scottishhealthawards.com