As 2025 comes to a close, Norfolk and Suffolk NHS Foundation Trust (NSFT) has taken time to reflect on the people whose dedication, compassion and leadership shape care across the region – recognising them at its annual Safer, Kinder, Better Staff Awards.
Held at Kesgrave in Suffolk on Thursday 11 December 2025, the awards celebrate colleagues from across the Trust who go above and beyond to make NSFT a safer, kinder and better organisation for service users, carers and one another.
Now in its second year, the awards received a record 690 nominations, a powerful indication of the culture of appreciation within NSFT. From these, 65 finalists were shortlisted, with 20 winners recognised on the night.
Two individuals were double award winners. Annah Mhlanga-Chirimuta, Ward Manager of Sandringham Ward in Central Norfolk, received the Engaging and Inspiring Staff Award for being “the kind of leader who not only engages but truly inspires, transforming everyday work into a place of purpose, learning and mutual respect.” She was recognised for creating a welcoming, supportive ward environment and for the respect she commands within her team.
Talent Beiley, Interim Associate Director of Nursing at Northside House in Great Yarmouth and Waveney, was named joint winner of the Rising Star Award. Talent’s inclusive leadership has helped transform engagement across forensic services, ensuring minority voices are heard and valued while maintaining a strong culture of safety and collaboration.
Both Annah and Talent were also presented with the Chair’s Award, recognising the exceptional and lasting contribution each has made to NSFT.
Zoë Billingham, Chair of NSFT, said:
“I am incredibly proud of the staff who work hard every day to provide safer, better and kinder services. These awards highlight just a small number of the many people who consistently go above and beyond for service users and colleagues.”
Caroline Donovan, NSFT Chief Executive, added:
“The Safer, Kinder, Better Awards are a real highlight of the year. The stories behind the nominations reflect the care, teamwork and commitment that exist right across the Trust.”
Recognising excellence across the Trust
Alongside individual award winners, teams from clinical and non-clinical services were also recognised for innovation, partnership working, inclusion and improvements in patient care — from reducing waiting times and restrictive practices, to strengthening collaboration with service users, carers and communities.
While only a small number of winners could be selected, the awards reflect the everyday commitment of staff across NSFT, whose work often goes unseen but makes a profound difference to the lives of those who rely on Trust services.
As NSFT looks ahead to 2026, the Safer, Kinder, Better Awards offer a moment of reflection – celebrating not just achievements, but the people whose values and dedication continue to make the Trust safer, kinder and better.
