Children’s Neurodiversity Project Wins at Nursing Times Awards 2026

Humber Teaching NHS Foundation Trust’s Neurodiversity team have been awarded the Children’s Services award at the prestigious Nursing Times Awards 2026. The Core Needs project has been receiving national recognition due to its innovative approach in tackling the needs of neurodiverse children within the school environment.

The annual Nursing Times awards recognise nursing-led innovation and excellence that is improving patient care and shaping the future of the profession. They ‘celebrate innovation, leadership and excellence across 25 categories, reflecting the full breadth of nursing and midwifery practice’.

The Trust’s winning Core Needs project centres around working with SENDCO (Special Educational Needs and Disabilities Coordinators) within schools to offer a quick response to the requirements of children with neurodiversity. SENDCO’s in identified schools across Hull and East Riding can refer children to the Neurodiversity team for a one-off, needs-led appointment and they will look at what support and adjustments can be put in place for individual children.

By addressing these needs within the school, children can remain in their familiar environment and be seen much faster. The 14 schools that have been involved in this project to date were identified as those with the greatest need and the highest likelihood of referrals.

The award win came from a unanimous decision from the judges in the Children’s Services category. They said, “Humber Teaching NHS Foundation Trust has transformed neurodevelopmental support by shifting from a diagnosis-led to a needs-led, nurse-led approach. Their work has cut waiting times and costs, and improved experiences for young people, families and schools. The judges were unanimous in their praise and inspired by the team’s passion for improving the lives of neurodivergent children.”

Katie Dale, Team Lead for Core Needs said, "I am incredibly proud of our team at Humber Teaching NHS Foundation Trust for winning this award. This recognition highlights everyone's dedication to providing immediate, needs-led support for neurodivergent children and their families. It is a true testament to the team's passion and hard work, and I couldn't be prouder of the real difference we are making together every day."

Craig Russo BEM BCA, Operational Manager for the Children’s Neurodevelopment Service at Humber Teaching NHS Foundation Trust said, "Core Needs was developed to ensure children and young people can access support based on need, rather than waiting for a diagnosis. By working closely with secondary schools, we have been able to provide earlier intervention, practical advice and tailored support when it matters most.

We are proud of the recognition the project has received nationally, but most importantly of the difference it is making for children, young people and families. The positive response from families, children and young people and schools demonstrates how valued and needed this service is, helping children and young people access the right support at the right time and achieve better outcomes."

Steve Ford, Nursing Times editor said, “Congratulations to all our winners at the 2026 Nursing Times Awards. Each year our judges are impressed, inspired and heartened by the great work being led by nurses and their teams around the UK, and this year is no exception. The health and social care system is under pressure like never before, but nurses and other clinicians continue to rise to the many challenges.”