The communications team at The Princess Alexandra Hospital NHS Trust has been shortlisted twice for national awards.

The team has been shortlisted in the categories of Best Covid Response and Best Event at the Institute of Internal Communication Awards, in recognition of their strong focus on engagement with people across PAHT during the pandemic.

In March 2020, lockdown was introduced and a clear need was identified to move communications and engagement to a virtual and digital format.

The switch to virtual and digital platforms was integral to output and the way the hospital shared and presented information using Microsoft Teams live briefings and webinars, a daily Covid-19 update eBulletin sent to staff, and YouTube playlists to support health and wellbeing.

Ogechi Emeadi, director of people, organisational development and communications at PAHT said: “It is fantastic that our communications team have been recognised twice, with the Covid response and Events not in a tent in the spotlight.

“We have heard how helpful our people have found our communications as a way of keeping informed and connected during the pandemic.

“We are committed to supporting our people and continuing to build on this amazing work for the future. Thank you to the communications team – we are all looking forward to the finals.”

The Institute of Internal Communication Awards 2021 finalists will be announced in September.