Emma Thompson, Nursing Director at the SYPCWTH opened the event by setting the context for the day and giving an overview of who was in the room in terms of roles and length of service.

The keynote address was delivered by Anna Young, whose portfolio includes roles as an Advanced Nurse Practitioner (ANP), Non-Medical Prescribing (NMP) Lead, Advanced Practice Training Programme Director (AP TPD) and member of the Royal College of Nursing Professional Nursing Committee. Anna set the tone for the day, championing the importance of ensuring the voices of General Practice Nurses are heard and valued across the wider healthcare system. 

Attendees heard from an inspiring range of speakers. General Practice Nurse Hannah Peck shared the remarkable story of how she founded the charity Baby Basics, encouraging delegates to recognise their own ability to create positive change within their communities. 

The event also celebrated outstanding achievement within the profession. Five nursing awards were presented by Victoria Bagshaw, NHS England Deputy Director for Workforce and Education. 

Congratulations to all of our amazing winners and runners up!

Leadership in General Practice Award 2026

Winner: Katie Whitehead

Runner up: Michelle Oldfield

Commitment to General Practice Nursing Award 2026

Winner: Laura Carnall

Runner up: Kathleen Leak

Support & Mentorship Award 2026

Winner: Karen Barber 

Runner up: Eva Whittaker

Rising Star Award 2026

Winner: Rebecca Fearn

Runner up: Claire Stoney & Hermione Hollis-Leick

Nursing Team of the Year Award 2026 

Winner: The Oakwood Surgery

Runner up: The Northfield Surgery, Field Road Surgery & Mayflower Medical Practice Nursing Team

Cathy Winfield MBE, Chief Nurse for South Yorkshire Integrated Care Board (ICB), also addressed delegates, highlighting the pivotal role General Practice Nurses have in shaping and delivering neighbourhood health services. 

Delivered by Nicola Standring-Brown, Senior Nurse Educator at SYPCWTH.

Johanna White, Registered Nurse and NIHR Senior Research Leader, conducted a heart-warming and impact interview with Greg Ejegi, a member of the 1in4 Sheffield Prostate Cancer Support Group

Long Service Awards were introduced for the first time, recognising the dedication and commitment of nurses working in General Practice across South Yorkshire. 

Special congratulations was given to Joy Naylor, who was recognised for an extraordinary 50 years of service to the NHS — a remarkable achievement and testament to her dedication to patient care.

30 Year Service Award

• Andrea Wallace
• Zara Head
• Kathy Stacey
• Lydia Lowman
• Sharon Woodcock
• Angela Ronan-Ulley
• Margie Nartey

40 Years Service Award

• Tracie Robinson
• Sue Scott
• Sarah Newton
• Caroline Baker
• Angela Armstrong
• Rowena Clarkson
• Ann Gregory
• Jane Emerson
• Denise Hicks

50 Years Service

• Joy Naylor

A programme of workshops enabled attendees to develop their clinical skills and knowledge, supporting ongoing professional development and excellence in patient care.