It’s back! Nominations for the STAR Awards 2026 are now open, and we’re inviting patients, colleagues and our local community to help recognise the people who go above and beyond.
Across our hospitals and services, staff and volunteers make an extraordinary difference every day, whether it’s providing excellent care to patients, working as a team or finding new ways to learn and improve.
The STAR Awards shine a light on these contributions and celebrate the people and teams who strive to deliver Excellent Care Everywhere, reflecting our values of being compassionate, inclusive and respectful.
Dr Andy Heeps, Chief Executive at the Trust, said:
“I’m delighted to launch this year’s STAR Awards, celebrating the dedication and compassion of our staff and volunteers across UHSussex. Each year, I hear incredible stories of colleagues going the extra mile for patients and one another, bringing expertise, innovation and compassion to everything they do.
“At the heart of the STAR Awards are the moments that show what great care looks like, how we work together and make a difference for patients every day. These awards are also an opportunity for us to recognise and celebrate each other, and the values and behaviours we’re continuing to strengthen across UHSussex.
“I’d encourage everyone to take a few moments to nominate an individual or team who has made a real difference to you or to a patient. Your recognition really does matter.”
This year, the awards have been refreshed to align with our new Trust strategy and values, with 13 award categories recognising:
- Outstanding care for patients and families
- The support colleagues give to one another
- Work that strengthens our communities
- Innovation and improvement that helps shape the future of care
Patients, family and friends, and visitors to the Trust can nominate colleagues and volunteers in one dedicated award category: Excellent Care for our Patients
This award recognises exceptional contributions that improve the quality, fairness and experience of patient care celebrating those who make a clear, positive difference to outcomes and the moments that matter for patients and families.
If you work at the Trust, you will be able to submit nominations to all award categories.
We are incredibly grateful to My Charity, our Trust charity, who proudly funds the STAR Awards.
How to nominate and more about the award categories can be found on our dedicated webpage:
Find out more about nominations