THE head of procurement at Stockport NHS Foundation Trust has received the top honour from the association representing healthcare professionals across the UK.
Tracey Stockwell received the President's Award from the Health Care Supply Association (HCSA), and only found out following a surprise visit while she was at work.
Tracey is the head of procurement for the trust which runs Stepping Hill Hospital and community NHS services.
She has worked to ensure healthcare supplies are purchased and distributed for more than 15 years, making sure staff are well equipped to provide the care their patients need.
When the Covid-19 pandemic hit in 2020, ensuring the supply of equipment was the biggest challenge Tracey, pictured, and her team had ever had to meet.
This was even harder for Tracey as she was undergoing chemotherapy treatment for cancer at the time.
She and the team met the challenge, ensuring the swift deployment of PPE items required to keep both staff and patients safe on the wards.
Under Tracey's leadership, the procurement team was able to establish a seven-day service to meet demand when it was needed.
Her achievements were also recognised earlier in the year when she received a personal call of congratulations from Prince William and an invitation to the 73rd birthday commemoration of the NHS at St Paul's Cathedral.