It’s that time of year again; the Annual SoR Radiography Awards are officially open for nominations.
Now in their 14th year, the awards give radiographers the opportunity to recognise colleagues who go that extra mile to make a difference to patients and to improve service delivery.
If there’s a person or team who you think fits the bill, now is your chance to nominate them for a special accolade.
The person you nominate for the UK Radiographer of the Year award must be a current member of the Society of Radiographers. You too must be a member to be able to nominate them. A team must include at least one SoR member.
To make your nomination(s), click here.
The awards will be made on 8 November in central London.
Nominations must be made by midnight on 5 July to be eligible for consideration.
Why should I make a nomination?
Radiographers often talk of their frustration that the profession is not better recognised. How many times have you heard colleagues complain, “The health service is not just about doctors and nurses! We’re essential too!”?
The profession’s profile has been raised significantly over the years, thanks to these annual awards. Coverage in newspapers local to award winners is widespread – readers like to know about people who have achieved success, particularly if they are health professionals who work at the local hospital.
It gives patients and families a good feeling if they are being looked after by award-winning practitioners.
A highlight for many winners is the awards presentation made before an invited audience of the ‘great and the good’ of radiography, plus members of parliament and a high-profile guest who presents the awards.
Another benefit is that the profile of the individual’s or team’s department increases. Everyone in the hospital, from the chief executive to the department manager, are aware that a member of staff or a team has won a high-profile, nationally recognised award.
Why highlight just one individual or team?
The vast majority of practitioners do an excellent job, day in, day out. These awards present a perfect opportunity to let them know that their work and dedication is appreciated and should be recognised by both their peers and the public.
There is no greater tribute than for your work to be acknowledged by your colleagues. That’s why the Society’s awards are so highly regarded by non-radiographers. Practitioners are nominated by other members of the profession, who will choose those they perceive to be the best.
Not just for the ‘high flyers’
The awards aren’t just for the ‘high flyers’. The majority of winners during the past 14 years have been everyday practitioners carrying out the same kind of work as most other radiographers. Yes, the judges are also interested in a candidate or a team that is doing something a bit special or being innovative.