iACCORD Awards 2026

Earlier this year, colleagues from across Nugent came together at the Crowne Plaza Liverpool City Centre for the iACCORD Staff Awards 2026 – an evening dedicated to celebrating the people who make Nugent what it is.

The awards recognised the extraordinary commitment, compassion and professionalism shown by colleagues across the organisation. Throughout a year of change and challenge, staff have continued to go above and beyond to provide outstanding care and support to the people and communities Nugent serves.

The evening celebrated the values at the heart of Nugent – leadership, teamwork, innovation and the everyday dedication that changes lives. Every nominee represented the very best of the organisation, with colleagues ecognised not only for their achievements, but for the care and passion they bring to their roles every day.

This year also introduced the People’s Choice Award, nominated by the people Nugent supports themselves, highlighting the real impact staff have on the lives of others every day.

The event was made possible thanks to the support of headline sponsor Aabyss, alongside other sponsors, partners and the dedicated project team who helped bring the evening to life.

Above all, the iACCORD Awards were an opportunity to say thank you and celebrate another year of excellence, resilience and making a difference together.

Below you can read about all of our fabulous winners.

Award Winners

Long Service Awards

10 Years

Kirsty Jones
ShanShan Chen
Billie-Jo Buxton
David Bradshaw
Helen South

20 Years

Silvia Atkinson

30 Years

Tracy Huyton

Volunteer Award

Winner: Libby Birchall – Libby first joined Nugent through work experience and has continued her journey with us as a dedicated volunteer ever since. From supporting reception and major events including the Gala, DIB events and the Sleep Out, to helping the events team bring Susie’s story to life through her acting skills, Libby consistently gives her time with enthusiasm, professionalism and creativity, making her an invaluable support across the organisation.

People’s Choice (Children’s) Award

Winner: Connor Hughes – Connor has made a powerful difference through the encouragement and belief he shows in the people he supports. By listening, motivating and helping others build confidence in themselves and their future, he inspires people to aim higher and believe in what they can achieve. His positivity and commitment make a lasting impact on those around him.

People’s Choice (Pathways) Award

Winner: Lynn Kendrick – Lynn brings energy, creativity and kindness to everything she does at Lime House. Through thoughtfully planned activities, events and celebrations, she creates a fun, welcoming environment where residents feel included, engaged and valued, bringing joy and positivity to each day.

Leader Award Winner

Winner: Megan Foster – Megan has shown exceptional leadership at Marydale, guiding the service through significant change and contributing to its Outstanding Ofsted judgement. She has united the team around a shared vision of trauma-informed care, creating a supportive culture where staff feel valued and empowered. Through calm, compassionate and decisive leadership, she has strengthened practice, improved outcomes for young people, and helped build a strong sense of pride and purpose across the service.

Integrity Award

Highly Commended: Angela Lorenz

Winner: Sarah Birchall – Sarah consistently demonstrates professionalism, fairness and integrity across Nugent, always doing what is right. She has provided strong support at Marydale, helping guide staff and maintain high standards. Her honesty and ethical leadership make her a trusted role model.

Ambition Award

Highly Commended: Sarah Birchall

Winner: Alex Woodward – Alex demonstrates ambitious, values-driven leadership at Marydale, setting high standards and inspiring others to achieve their best. She leads with integrity and care, supports staff development, and drives positive change, always focused on improving outcomes for young people.

Courage Award

Winner: Barbara Jackson-Parr: Barbara shows bravery and resilience in everything she does, stepping into challenges and supporting both staff and residents with confidence and care. She consistently goes above and beyond, taking on demanding tasks and leading by example, making her a trusted and inspiring presence at St Joseph’s.

Compassion Award

Winner: Jacqueline Moynihan: Jacqueline has dedicated 30 years to Margaret Roper House, consistently showing kindness, care and dedication to residents and colleagues. She goes above and beyond to support and uplift others, bringing positivity and warmth into everyday life and special occasions alike.

Optimism Award

Winner: Zoe Alexander: Zoe is a positive, dedicated team member who quickly adapted to her role and consistently demonstrates professionalism, resilience and a willingness to learn. She brings a calm, solutions-focused approach to challenges and helps create a supportive environment for colleagues.

Respect Award

Winner: Michelle Strange: Michelle consistently shows respect in everything she does, treating others with kindness, fairness and professionalism. She creates a calm, supportive environment where people feel valued, taking time to listen, reassure and encourage those around her.

Dignity Award

Winner: Lynn Kendrick – Lynn consistently puts people at the centre of everything she does, building strong, trusting relationships with residents, families and volunteers. Through her compassionate, thoughtful approach, she creates meaningful, inclusive experiences that bring comfort, joy and a sense of dignity to those she supports.

Team Award

Highly Commended: St Joseph’s

Winner: Marydale Lodge – The Marydale team has shown outstanding resilience, unity and commitment, delivering high-quality, trauma-informed care despite significant challenges. Their strong collaboration helped create a safe, supportive environment for young people and contributed to an Outstanding Ofsted judgement, making them deserving winners of the Team Award.

Chief Executive Award

Winner: Lynn Kendrick – The Chief Executive Award, chosen by Jo Henney, recognises someone who embodies Nugent’s values through exceptional dedication, kindness and impact. This year it was awarded to Lynn Kendrick, whose compassion and people-first approach has made a lasting difference to residents, families and colleagues, strengthening relationships and enriching lives.