A DEAF porter was among the first regional winners of the Our Health Heroes Awards.

Stephen Hartman, 56, who used to work at Basildon Hospital, received the award for Operational Services Worker of the Year for the eastern region at a special ceremony hosted by Skills for Health, the National Skills Academy for Health and Unison at Unison’s headquarters in London.

The awards, compered by doctor and comedian Dr Phil Hammond, were the culmination of a campaign by the three organisations to celebrate the contribution made by the 800,000 individuals who make up the healthcare support workforce across the country.

From hospital porters to emergency care assistants, cleaners, caterers and administrative staff, they play an absolutely crucial role in patient care, but their commitment and dedication often goes unnoticed.

Healthcare teams across the UK were asked to nominate colleagues for one of two awards – clinical support worker of the year and operational services worker of the year.

A total of 24 regional winners were chosen by a panel of industry judges - one in each category for each of Unison’s 12 regions around the UK.

The awards received over 500 entries, including 24 from the eastern region.

Stephen and the other regional winners were chosen for their ability to put patients first, to act as positive role models to colleagues and to overcome personal challenges in their lives.

Stephen was put forward for his compassionate nature and his tendency to go above and beyond for his colleagues and patients.

Although Stephen is deaf, he has embraced his role and has even taught hundreds of members of staff sign language.

John Rogers, chief executive at Skills for Health, said: “The dedicated individuals in our healthcare support workforce truly are the sector’s unsung heroes.

“These people keep the NHS running from behind the scenes, and their hard work and commitment is integral to making sure patients receive the very best care possible.”