Caring NHS staff were recognised for their outstanding work with patients with a quadruple award haul at the recent Black Country ICB Cancer Awards.
Group Chief Executive Diane Wake was delighted to see two awards apiece for the two Trusts in the group she leads. Claire Murphy, Health Promotion Specialist for the City, Sandwell and Walsall Breast Screening Service, was named Sandwell Individual of the Year, recognising her outstanding contribution to improving breast cancer screening and awareness across the region. Claire was joined by Beth Harvey and her team who scooped Sandwell Team of the Year for their innovative Cuppa and Catch up sessions.
John Schneider from Dudley Group NHS Foundation Trust was recognised as Dudley Individual of the Year for his inspirational leadership of the Cancer Services team – which also scooped the award for Dudley Team of the Year. Lucy Smith DGFT Lead Cancer Nurse commented: “I am so proud of John and the team for the tireless work they do every day to benefit our patients. Both these awards represent the continuous focus on ensuring patients and their families are supported through their cancer journeys.”
Jenny Donovan Cancer Services Manager at SWB NHS Trust said: “Beth introduced the Cuppa and Catch up service in 2025 and runs sessions monthly. Patients are invited for a cuppa in an informal venue with like-minded patients and carers. They can share any concerns or just have a friendly chat about life, family and new adventures. We are delighted that we have received interest from across the region from other cancer teams wanting to set up similar sessions.”
Claire was nominated by colleague Shamima Jeewa, Deputy Programme Manager and Clinical Superintendent, who praised her unwavering commitment to reducing inequalities and improving patient outcomes. Shamima said: “Claire consistently embodies the values of Black Country Cancer Services. She plays a vital role in improving engagement with our diverse population, increasing accessibility to services, and enhancing both patient experience and outcomes. Her work is instrumental in addressing inequalities in breast screening access, and she actively promotes and supports health promotion and research initiatives across the service.”
Each year, approximately 58,000–60,000 women are invited for breast screening across the service. Screening plays a crucial role in detecting cancers at an early stage often before they can be seen or felt leading to significantly better health outcomes. The service also encourages breast health awareness for women under 50 and between screening appointments, emphasising the importance of recognising symptoms and reporting any changes to a GP. Women aged 50 to 71 are invited for screening every three years, while those over 71 can self-refer by contacting the breast unit.
Diane added: “This is wonderful recognition for staff in both Trusts. Claire’s dedication to improving breast cancer screening across Sandwell, West Birmingham and Walsall has changed lives and strengthened our commitment to early detection. This award recognises not just her expertise, but her compassion and her determination to make our communities healthier and more informed.
“John’s inspirational leadership is remarkable, and both his individual award and team win demonstrate the values we hold dear.”