Published on: 14 October 2026
A local NHS worker from Erewash has been named a finalist in a prestigious national award celebrating outstanding contributions to employment support services.
Rosie May, IPS Team Leader at the Trust at Derbyshire Healthcare NHS Foundation Trust, has been shortlisted for the Lived Experience Award, which recognises the valuable contribution of people who use their personal experiences to help shape and strengthen Individual Placement and Support (IPS) services.
Rosie’s nomination is a fantastic recognition of the passion, dedication and impact she has demonstrated throughout her IPS journey. By sharing her lived experience and supporting others, she has helped to make a positive difference for people accessing IPS support.
The IPS Grow Awards celebrate people, teams, partnerships and organisations making an outstanding contribution to IPS services across England. The awards highlight innovation, leadership, collaboration and the life-changing impact of IPS.
Mark Powell, Trust Chief Executive, said: “Rosie is one of three finalists shortlisted for the Lived Experience Award. Her achievement reflects her commitment to using her experience to inspire and empower others, and is something for Rosie, her colleagues and the wider Trust to be incredibly proud of.
“Through bringing lived experience into her leadership and the support she provides, Rosie helps us to better understand what matters to the people in our care. This strengthens our services and helps ensure that the support people receive is compassionate, relevant and shaped around their needs.”
After receiving the good news, Rosie said: “I’m incredibly proud to be shortlisted for this award. Using my lived experience in my work allows me to connect with people, understand the challenges they may be facing and help them recognise their own strengths. I hope this recognition shows the value that lived experience can bring to services and inspires others to see their experiences as something that can make a positive difference.”
The full list of finalists is available on the IPS Grow website.
