The Scottish Children’s Health Awards are one of the most special moments in the Children’s Health Scotland calendar. Each year, the awards shine a spotlight on the extraordinary children, young people, families, professionals and teams who go above and beyond to improve health, wellbeing and healthcare experiences across Scotland.
This year’s winners represent the very best of compassion, courage, innovation and dedication. From healthcare professionals transforming lives through kindness and care, to young people overcoming immense challenges and inspiring those around them, every winner demonstrates the positive difference that can be made when children and young people’s health, wellbeing and rights are placed at the heart of everything we do.
Children’s Choice Award
Caitlin Patterson and Susan Campbell
This year’s Children’s Choice Award was presented to Caitlin Patterson and Susan Campbell from the Children’s Community Nursing Team at University Hospital Wishaw, NHS Lanarkshire. Nominated by a parent, the pair were recognised for their exceptional care, compassion and commitment to helping one young boy overcome anxiety around medical procedures and become more involved in his own care. Their patient and supportive approach helped build confidence, independence and trust, making a lasting difference to both the child and his family.
Health-Related Play Award
Chelsea Stuart
Chelsea Stuart received the Health-Related Play Award for her outstanding contribution as a Health Play Assistant. Through creativity, imagination and kindness, Chelsea helps children and young people feel safe, supported and empowered during their time in hospital. Whether she is helping children cope with treatment, supporting siblings and families, or creating moments of joy during difficult circumstances, Chelsea embodies the transformative power of health-related play.
Improving Life Experiences Award
Stanmore House School Multidisciplinary Team
The Stanmore House School Multidisciplinary Team won the Improving Life Experiences Award for their collaborative approach to supporting children and young people with disabilities and complex needs. Bringing together expertise from education, therapy and care, the team creates personalised opportunities that help children thrive, learn and achieve their full potential while championing children’s rights and dignity every day.
Health and Wellbeing Award
Tanya Richards
Tanya Richards, Team Leader within Wellbeing Scotland’s Children and Families Service, was recognised for her exceptional commitment to supporting vulnerable children, young people and families. Through compassionate leadership, counselling and advocacy, Tanya helps children who have experienced trauma find hope, healing and strength while ensuring they feel listened to, respected and empowered.
Healthcare Rights Award
Lizzie MacLeish – Borders Nicotine Prevention Toolkit Team
The Healthcare Rights Award was presented to Lizzie MacLeish, Sophie Gillians and Shona Easingwood of the Borders Nicotine Prevention Toolkit Team. Their innovative, rights-based approach to nicotine prevention has empowered young people to shape health messaging, challenge misinformation and influence decisions affecting their health and wellbeing. Their work has become an example of best practice and demonstrates the importance of placing young people’s voices at the centre of healthcare initiatives.
Children’s Bravery Award
Madiee Merrick
Madiee Merrick’s extraordinary courage and resilience made her a deserving winner of the Children’s Bravery Award. Having faced significant health challenges throughout her life, including major surgeries, a bowel transplant and cancer treatment, Madiee continues to inspire those around her with her positivity, kindness and determination. Despite her own experiences, she always finds time to support and encourage other young patients, bringing comfort to children facing similar challenges.
Young Achiever Award
Millie Coe
The Young Achiever Award was presented to Millie Coe, whose story of resilience and determination captured the hearts of the judging panel. After overcoming significant personal challenges, Millie has flourished at school, volunteered within her community, raised money for charity and become a positive role model for others. Her ambition to become a GP and help people facing difficult circumstances reflects the compassion and maturity that make her such an inspirational young person.
Lifetime Achievement Award
Dr Zoe Dunhill
The prestigious Lifetime Achievement Award was awarded to Dr Zoe Dunhill in recognition of her exceptional contribution to children’s health over many decades. A respected paediatrician and leader, Zoe has helped shape children’s health services across Scotland and played a pivotal role in developing trusted resources such as Ready Steady Baby and Ready Steady Toddler. Her legacy continues to support generations of children, parents and families.
Looking Ahead
Helen Forrest, Chief Executive of Children’s Health Scotland, said:
The Scottish Children’s Health Awards are one of the absolute highlights of our year. They provide a wonderful opportunity to celebrate the remarkable children, young people, professionals, volunteers and organisations who are making a positive difference to lives across Scotland every single day.
This year’s winners demonstrate the very best of what can be achieved through compassion, courage, innovation and a commitment to children’s rights. From healthcare professionals delivering exceptional care, to young people showing extraordinary resilience in the face of adversity, each winner has an inspiring story that deserves to be recognised and celebrated.
We know there are many more incredible individuals and teams making a difference in communities, hospitals, schools and services across Scotland. That’s why I would encourage everyone to start thinking about who they could nominate for the Scottish Children’s Health Awards 2027. By sharing these stories, we not only recognise outstanding achievements but inspire others and help create a Scotland where every child and young person can thrive.
As we celebrate our 2026 winners, we extend our heartfelt congratulations to everyone who was nominated. Thank you for everything you do to support children and young people’s health, wellbeing and rights. Together, you are helping to create a brighter, healthier future for children across Scotland.
Do you want a chance to be one of our 2027 winners?
If you want a chance to be one of our 2027 winners you can nominate now by CLICKING HERE.
