TEAMS and individuals across Devon are celebrating after being named regional champions in the first NHS Excellence Awards.

Recognising outstanding work to improve care for patients, communities and staff, the awards highlight innovation, quality improvement and leadership across health and care.

Regional champions were selected by NHS panels for their work across the South West.

Several organisations in Devon were named regional champions, including the University Hospitals Plymouth NHS Trust and the Devon Partnership Trust; the former was recognised for delivering value, working in partnership and quality improvement, while the latter was praised for valuing its people.

Regional champions from all parts of England will now progress to the national shortlist, with winners announced at an awards ceremony at NHS ConfedExpo in Manchester in June 2026.

Chairman of NHS Devon and NHS Cornwall and Isles of Scilly, John Govett, said: ‘I am incredibly proud of the staff, volunteers and partners whose efforts are making a real difference to people’s lives, and I wish them every success as they go forward to represent the South West on the national stage’.