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Return of Scotlands Health Awards is transformative opportunity for recognising innovative achievements Header Template

Return of Scotland’s Health Awards is ‘transformative opportunity for recognising innovative achievements’

4 minutes
Posted: 04-June-2026

Scotland’s Health Awards could be transformational for the fortunes of pioneering thinkers making standout breakthroughs, insists one of the country’s innovation leaders

With nominations now open for this year's awards, the Innovation category offers an exciting opportunity for an individual, group, or team to be recognised for developing groundbreaking approaches to improving health and social care across the country.

Hosted by The Scotsman at Edinburgh’s Corn Exchange, the gathering — taking place from 6.30pm on Thursday 12 November – is being held in partnership with NHS Scotland and the Scottish Government for a third year.

Organisers say that “innovation has many forms and this award recognises clinical and non-clinical innovation. It includes research, use of new or emerging technologies, new ways of working, or faster, smarter access to services and treatments.”

Head of Business Development at leading innovation organisation InnoScot Health, Frances Ramsay said: “Every year, this category is amongst the most thought-provoking — whether by shining a light on smart new approaches to lingering issues or offering a glimpse of a better future where improved patient outcomes are clearly defined.

“Fundamentally, the category champions outstanding creative thinking leading to improved quality, delivery, safety, and productivity within Scottish health and social care. It represents those tireless efforts that are making a significant difference, often under challenging circumstances, and which we can all be proud of.”

Nominations will be accepted for individuals and/or teams working in NHS, Health and Social Care Partnership, or another healthcare-focused organisation within Scotland.

According to organisers, the awards’ 17 categories exemplify “the extraordinary achievements of those individuals and teams who go above and beyond to deliver compassionate, high-quality health and social care to the people of Scotland,” whether working on the frontline or in vital support roles.

It is expected that the ceremony and gala dinner will be attended by over 450 guests.

Scotland’s new Cabinet Secretary for Health and Care, Angela Constance said: “These awards give people the chance to say a heartfelt thank you — to express their gratitude for the care and kindness they’ve experienced.

“Scotland’s Health Awards are about recognising the extraordinary efforts that make a lasting difference to the lives of patients, families and communities.

“For staff and volunteers, it’s a powerful reminder that their work is valued and appreciated.

“I would encourage everyone to please take the time to nominate and say thank you on behalf of all of us.”

Nominations close on Sunday 23 August, but voting on the Readers’ Choice Award, which is hand-selected by the public themselves, will be open until October.

InnoScot Health is an expert in collaboratively taking innovative ideas to the next level through a ‘triple helix’ approach to NHS, industry, and academia.

If you have an innovative healthcare idea, then InnoScot Health would like to hear from you. You can start by booking a consultation or submitting your idea.

An NHS Scotland member of staff framed with InnoScot Health branding elements and the green branded colouring, representing the 'ideas' concept. (Updated)

Got an idea?

Every innovation starts with an idea. Ideas from people like you. People working within health and social care who can spot opportunities, solve problems, and identify ways to make things better.


If you have an innovative healthcare idea, then InnoScot Health would like to hear from you. You can start by booking a consultation or submitting your idea.

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InnoScot Health works in partnership with NHS Scotland to identify, protect, develop and commercialise new innovations from healthcare professionals. Registered Number: SC 236303. Registered address: The Pentagon Centre, Suite 203, 36 Washington Street, Glasgow, G3 8AZ
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