Colleagues from Aintree University Hospital have received national recognition at the sixth annual MyPorter Awards, celebrating the vital contributions of portering and facilities staff across the NHS.
Sean Sullivan was awarded Newcomer of the Year in recognition of the outstanding progress he has made since joining Aintree’s Portering team in September 2024.
Sean joined the organisation through the supported internship programme, delivered in partnership with Greenbank College. The programme supports people with disabilities and those facing barriers to employment by offering structured workplace placements that help participants build skills, confidence and experience.
Working alongside his mentor Alex Clarke, permanent Porter at Aintree’s CT Department, Sean has secured a bank porter role at Aintree, and in August 2025, the pair were presented with certificates for outstanding achievement by the Deputy Director and Head of Estates and Facilities.
Sharna Hart, Head of Porter Services at Aintree, said: “Sean’s journey from supported intern to bank porter in just over a year is something we are incredibly proud of. He has embraced every aspect of the role with real dedication and compassion for patients, and his story is a brilliant example of what inclusive employment can achieve. Seeing him recognised at a national level is thoroughly deserved.”
Speaking after receiving his award, Sean said: “Being given this award means everything to me. I’m so proud of how far I’ve come and I just want to say thank you to everyone who has supported me.”
In addition to Sean’s award win, porter shift managers Craig James and Geoggrey Myers, were given honourable mentions after being shortlisted in the Outstanding Contribution to Patient Experience category.
Paul Fitzpatrick, Director for Estates and Facilities, said: “I would like to congratulate Sean, Craig and Geoff on their well-deserved achievements. Their success reflects the dedication of our portering and facilities teams, and our continued commitment to develop, support and value colleagues at every level of our organisation.”