UHUK Celebrates Outstanding Contributions to Urgent Care

Urgent Health UK (UHUK), the national federation for social enterprise urgent and integrated care providers, has recognised four exceptional individuals for their dedication, leadership, and compassion in delivering high-quality care.

Presented at the UHUK Awards Best Practice Showcase, these inaugural awards celebrate the vital work being done across the sector, both by those leading transformational change and those going above and beyond in frontline care.

Two Lifetime Achievement Awards were given in recognition of long service and leadership:

Dr Fay Wilson, co-founder of Badger Health Group, was honoured for over four decades of innovation and leadership in urgent and primary care. A bold voice for patients and professionals alike, she has influenced national policy, championed equity, and reshaped the way urgent care is delivered.

Sheila Richardson, Senior Clinical Nurse Manager at Cumbria Health, received the award for her pioneering work in rural urgent care and advanced nursing. A trailblazer in non-medical prescribing and a mentor to countless Nurse Practitioners, Sheila has dedicated her career to improving access and outcomes in some of England’s most remote communities.

Two Urgent Care Hero Awards were also presented, celebrating individuals who consistently go above and beyond in their roles, delivering exceptional care and support without holding formal leadership positions.

Sheilagh Armstrong, Advanced Clinical Practitioner at Mastercall Healthcare, was recognised for her work with people experiencing homelessness through Stockport’s Wellspring centre. Her holistic, person-centred approach has earned trust and improved access for some of the
most marginalised individuals in society.

Maggie Brett, Clinical Patient Service Facilitator at DHU 111, was celebrated for her work in improving triage pathways, supporting colleagues, and championing compassionate, high-quality telephone-based care. Her insight and dedication have had a lasting impact on both patients and staff.

UHUK Chief Executive Conor Burke said: “These awards highlight the best of social enterprise urgent care, care that is innovative, inclusive, and rooted in community. Whether leading service transformation or quietly making a difference every day, these individuals embody the values we stand for. We are proud to celebrate their achievements on behalf of our members and the patients they serve.”