MPs across Yorkshire have been asked to nominate their health and care heroes as the NHS launches its prestigious parliamentary awards to recognise staff who go above and beyond the call of duty.

The awards were created to celebrate NHS staff, carers and volunteers - their hard work, innovative ideas and unwavering efforts to put patients first.

Individuals and teams will be key to delivering the Long Term Plan, by leading improvements on major conditions including cancer, mental health and stroke, helping to make the NHS fit for the future.

MPs are now searching for and want to hear from outstanding individuals in their local area for 2019 who have innovated, impressed and made a real difference to how the health service provides care for patients.

Ruth May, chief nursing officer for England, said: “There is no doubt in my mind that our staff make the NHS what it is today - a much loved institution that staff and patients can be proud of - the expertise, skill and knowledge of nursing, midwifery and care staff make them great leaders and innovators who provide high quality care to us, day in, day out.

“I would encourage all those who have seen or received outstanding care first hand, to send nominations to their MP and give our local NHS staff the national recognition they deserve.”

NHS national medical director Professor Stephen Powis, said: “The NHS Long Term Plan set out how the health service will expand and improve care for patients over the coming years, with action on the health problems which matter most to people.

“But none of these ambitions will be possible without the skill and dedication of the 1.3 million staff who work for the NHS, including our doctors, nurses, cleaners, receptionists and many more. We want to celebrate with them as part of the NHS Parliamentary Award 2019.”

There are ten categories, including a Lifetime Achievement award to honour those who have devoted their life or career to making the NHS better, both for patients and those who work within it.

The Parliamentary Awards 2019, launched in Parliament this week (March 5th) and all those who are shortlisted for excellence will be invited to an award ceremony in Parliament to celebrate their fantastic achievements.

Last year over 250 Members of Parliament nominated an individual or organisation for an award. There were over 750 nominations from MPs in England - 750 examples of talent, creativity and brilliance in the NHS identified by England’s MPs.