Shine a light on your Star of the Year
Every day, colleagues across the Trust go above and beyond to support our patients, each other, and our partners — often without recognition. The Croydon Stars Awards are our chance to change that.
These annual awards celebrate the incredible work that takes place across our services and recognise the people who make a real difference — whether it’s through outstanding patient care, behind-the-scenes support, or driving innovation and improvement.
One of the most anticipated categories is the Star of the Year Award — our patient choice award, it’s chance to celebrate an exceptional individual who embodies the values of Croydon Health Services and goes the extra mile to provide high quality care, day in and day out.
Last November, a young patient spent five weeks critically unwell at Croydon University Hospital. During this incredibly difficult time, it was the care, support, and unwavering dedication of Claire and Melissa that made a lasting difference to his family.
From the moment the family arrived in A&E, Claire and Melissa were there to meet them, offering reassurance and clarity during a period of deep uncertainty. They provided daily support throughout the hospital stay — explaining what was happening, advocating to ensure the young patient received the best possible care, and helping the family cope with the emotional strain of his condition.
Their compassionate approach left a profound impact, highlighting the difference that genuine, human-centred care can make during a crisis.
To show their heartfelt appreciation, the patient’s family nominated Claire and Melissa for the Croydon Star of the Year award — a tribute to the exceptional care that helped them through one of the toughest times in their lives.
Last year’s Star of the Year winners, Claire Jewell and Melissa Clarke, shared their experience of being recognised:
“We were nominated by a parent of a patient that we looked after for many years. It was really lovely to receive that nomination and at the family took the time out of their busy life to nominate us.It was really amazing to hear how we impacted that family and that the care we provided for their child. And how it supported them through really difficult times”
“Croydon Stars is more than a ceremony — it’s a celebration of compassion and commitment.”
Whether you’re in a clinical role or support service, every contribution counts — and it’s time to give those stars the recognition they deserve.
Now it’s over to you.
Nominations close at 5pm on Friday 20 June. You can nominate any Trust member of staff, including doctors, nurses, midwives, healthcare assistants, pharmacists, radiographers, or any other member of our clinical teams.
If you know someone who deserves recognition for their dedication and excellence, please consider nominating them. Your support can help shine a light on the unsung heroes who make a difference in our community, so nominate your Star of the Year today.
For more information on how to nominate a staff member, visit our website or contact the Trust's communications team. Let's celebrate our remarkable staff together!
Hear from our Stars