The award was presented for their Community Targeted Outreach Programme (CTOP) a revolutionary project that is transforming the way in which health and social care workforce development is approached.

Designed to attract, recruit and retain the best and brightest talent from across the region, the initiative focuses on connecting with disadvantaged communities to boost aspirations and open doors to careers in health and social care.

At the heart of the programme is a commitment to inclusive engagement, co-design, and a long-term vision to build a resilient, representative health and social care workforce for the future. The initiative supports individuals who may not have previously considered further education, by creating accessible and inspiring pathways into the sector.

Already, the impact of the initiative is visible: local school students have been welcomed into the University of Bedfordshire to explore cutting-edge simulation suites and experience first-hand the exciting career opportunities available within the NHS. These visits not only demystify the world of healthcare but also spark ambition in young people, some of whom are now actively considering careers in the field.

Professor Nasreen Ali, the research lead from the University of Bedfordshire said: “The award recognises the importance of inclusive co-designed engagement with underrepresented communities for workforce development on an international stage.”

Martha Roberts, Chief People Officer from Bedfordshire, Luton and Milton Keynes Integrated Care Board, who is the Senior Responsible Officer for the programme and who co-presented with Professor Ali at the conference, added:

“We are pleased to be undertaking joint research with University of Bedfordshire and our diverse communities — understanding and supporting all our residents into roles in health and care in BLMK.”

With the accolade, the initiative is now set to expand its reach, embedding its methodology and findings into schools and further education colleges across the region. This next phase aims to empower students with informed career choices and inspire a new generation of professionals ready to serve in the NHS and care services.

The international recognition underscores the strength of partnership working in BLMK and the shared commitment to improving care outcomes, addressing health inequalities, and supporting people and communities to thrive.

As the health and care system evolves, the CTOP intervention stands as a beacon of innovation, inclusion, and the transformative power of collaboration.