National Rheumatoid Arthritis Society Healthcare Champion Awards to Celebrate Excellence in Care

01 April 2026

The National Rheumatoid Arthritis Society (NRAS) is celebrating its 25^th anniversary in 2026 by launching the latest edition of its prestigious Healthcare Champion Awards, a national initiative designed to shine a light on outstanding healthcare professionals who go above and beyond in supporting people living with Rheumatoid Arthritis (RA) and Juvenile Idiopathic Arthritis (JIA).

Every day, people living with RA and JIA are relying upon dedicated rheumatologists, nurses, physiotherapists, occupational therapists, GPs and other health professionals to help them navigate complex, lifelong conditions. The NRAS Healthcare Champion Awards highlight those who consistently deliver exceptional, compassionate and innovative care,  and who make a meaningful difference to the lives of their patients.

Championing excellence across the UK

The awards invite nominations from people living with RA or JIA, as well as their families and carers, to recognise the professionals who have had a transformative impact on their care journey. Whether through clinical expertise, unwavering support, patient‑centred communication, or outstanding advocacy, nominees will exemplify the highest standards in rheumatology care.

Awards categories

The awards include individual awards and team awards for professionals from across the rheumatology workforce, making an outstanding contribution to the care of adults and young people living with RA and JIA. This year’s awards will also feature a special award for the use of digital technology in care.

Call for nominations

NRAS encourages anyone affected by RA or JIA to share their stories and nominate the healthcare professionals who have gone above and beyond. Nominations are now open and can be submitted by clicking the button below.

Nominations will close at midnight on May 4^th.

Why these awards matter

There are more than half a million people in the UK living with Rheumatoid Arthritis and Juvenile Idiopathic Arthritis. This includes around 12,000 young people. Access to high‑quality, timely, and empathetic care plays a vital role in better long‑term outcomes, mental wellbeing, and quality of life. The NRAS Healthcare Champion Awards aim to recognise the professionals who are helping to raise the standard of care for all.

The awards ceremony

The awards will be presented at a special event in October in London. Those who nominated the winning healthcare professionals will be invited to attend the event along with a guest.

NRAS Founder and National Patient Champion, Ailsa Bosworth MBE has said:

“We hear every day from our community about the extraordinary individuals who work tirelessly to support those living with RA and JIA. These awards celebrate the empathy, dedication, and excellence that make such a profound difference to patients and their families. We are delighted to create a platform that highlights these exceptional healthcare heroes.”

Ailsa Bosworth MBE, Founder and National Patient Champion at NRAS