The People’s Award for Dignity in Care is a new award to recognise individuals and teams who go the extra mile to ensure dignity and respect in any area of health and social care.

For more information or to nominate someone for the award visit www.dignityincare.org.uk or call the freephone helpline on 0870 000 1100. Nominations close 6 March 2009.

It is the first time that members of the public as well as professionals can put forward nominees for the award. You can nominate teams or individuals employed in health or social care settings. This includes staff in day centres, care homes, doctors’ surgeries, hospitals, hospices and clinics and was as people who provide care in people’s own homes or through direct payments.

The award is a chance for us to celebrate those in the care services who are doing a great job and making such huge difference to people’s lives across the country.

The awards aim to nurture a culture of dignity and compassion in the NHS and Social Care. Members of staff can also nominate their colleagues, but their nomination will need to be supported by a member of the public.

The award is part of the annual Health and Social Care Awards which are designed to recognise and reward innovation and inspired thinking in the provision of care.