Trust Values in Action: Celebrating September staff and team highlights

At Leeds and York Partnership NHS Foundation Trust, we’re proud to celebrate the incredible work of our teams and individuals who go above and beyond to deliver compassionate, high-quality care. Here are our latest winners for Team of the Month, Individual of the Month, and Sara’s Spotlight Award.

Team of the Month

Working Age Liaison Psychiatry Inreach Team

The liaison teams at St James’s and Leeds General Infirmary consistently deliver safe, compassionate, and high-quality care for patients with mental health needs at Leeds Teaching Hospitals Trust. Their strong collaboration with ward teams ensures patients’ needs are met, even in the most challenging circumstances.

In August, the team demonstrated exceptional adaptability in managing acute mental health risks, particularly for patients medically fit for discharge but awaiting specialist placements. At one point, they supported eight individuals detained under the Mental Health Act, maintaining safety and dignity throughout.

Led by Cassie, the team champions best practice, ensures appropriate follow-up care, and highlights the importance of holistic, patient-centred support.

Team of the Month

Acute Liaison Psychiatry Service (ALPS) Team

Since 2020, the ALPS team has partnered with Research & Development to deliver the Fresh Start trial, offering tailored therapy to individuals presenting to A&E after repeated self-harm.

Despite running a 24-hour service, the team embedded the trial into daily practice, identifying and supporting service users with care and clarity. Several clinicians trained in adapted Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT) and Psychodynamic Interpersonal Therapy (PIT) to deliver the intervention directly.

ALPS recruited 70 participants—the highest across all NHS trusts—with 36 receiving therapy. Their commitment, collaboration, and adaptability have made a significant impact, helping shape future care for a vulnerable population.

Individual of the Month

Trevor Tyson, Clinical Team Manager – The Becklin Centre

Trevor demonstrated outstanding leadership and compassion during a recent security incident at the Becklin Centre.

His calm, clear communication and proactive support ensured the safety and reassurance of both staff and service users. By identifying lone workers and offering tailored guidance, Trevor helped maintain a safe and supportive environment.

His thoughtful and measured approach allowed staff to feel secure throughout the incident and beyond. Trevor’s dedication to care, clarity, and compassion truly stood out.

Sara’s Spotlight Award – Summer 2025

Wan Abdullah – Research Hero of the Month (August 2025)

We are proud to celebrate Wan Abdullah as the winner of Sara’s Spotlight Award and our Research Hero of the Month.

Wan’s contributions to the UPLIFT project have been nothing short of inspiring. From the outset, Wan’s insight, compassion, and unwavering commitment have shaped the heart of the work, supporting refugee and asylum-seeking women navigating perinatal mental health challenges.

Wan’s voice has been central to UPLIFT’s success—helping us listen more deeply, engage more thoughtfully, and build a compassionate community that empowers those who’ve often struggled in silence.

Through Me & Ma, Wan’s creativity and energy have brought the project to life on social media, using storytelling, podcasts, and wellbeing content to reach communities. Whether behind the scenes or starring in videos, Wan’s ideas continue to inspire and connect.

“Everyone is a champion within themselves…” – Wan Abdullah

“Wan, you are not only our research hero—you are a beacon of hope, resilience, and brilliance. Your exceptional contribution stands out, and it’s this light that makes you the perfect recipient of this award.” – With heartfelt congratulations, Dr Sara Munro, Chief Executive Officer