January 22, 2026

Newcastle Hospitals Win Nursing Times Award for Best Workplace Development

Newcastle Hospitals won the Nursing Times Workforce Award for Best Workplace for Learning and Development in 2022. Their collaborative Leadership Development Programme, ‘Maximising Your Potential,’ trained over 50 Black, Asian, or Minority Ethnic (BAME) staff, leading to promotions and a blueprint for NHS-wide replication. Judges praised the initiative for challenging traditional models and fostering equity in leadership.


Key Takeaways

Collaborative Leadership Training in NHS for BAME Staff

Newcastle Hospitals and NHS Arden and Gem CSU co-created a Leadership Development Programme for over 50 BAME staff, addressing underrepresentation in healthcare leadership. Participants gained promotions post-training, demonstrating the program’s impact on career progression and diversity.

Replicable NHS Blueprint for Inclusive Leadership Programs

The ‘Maximising Your Potential’ program offers a scalable framework for NHS organizations to foster inclusive leadership. By prioritizing BAME staff development, it creates equitable pathways for career growth while setting a standard for sector-wide adoption.

Judges Highlight Program’s Global Potential and Patient-Centric Impact

Awards judges recognized the initiative as ‘inspirational’ and ‘brave,’ citing strong data and partnerships. The program’s focus on patient-centered leadership models challenges traditional healthcare hierarchies, improving outcomes for diverse communities.

Promoting Equity Through Safe Leadership Development Spaces

The program emphasizes ‘safe spaces’ for BAME staff to discuss lived experiences and build leadership skills. This approach addresses systemic barriers in healthcare, fostering authentic dialogue and trust among underrepresented groups.

Long-Term Vision for Diverse NHS Leadership Representation

Newcastle Hospitals aim to embed diversity at all leadership levels through sustained initiatives. The program’s success underscores the NHS’s commitment to creating vibrant, representative teams that reflect the communities they serve.


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