This category at the Black Healthcare Awards 2026 recognises a Black practitioner or leader working in Individual Placement and Support (IPS) services in England who has made an outstanding contribution to IPS delivery, leadership, or system change. The nomination form can be found at the bottom of this page.

This award celebrates people whose work is improving employment outcomes, strengthening inclusion and equity, and helping IPS services better meet the needs of Black people and communities. It recognises excellence across frontline practice, leadership, innovation, advocacy, and the support and development of others.

This award forms part of a wider IPS recognition programme that celebrates excellence, impact, and inclusion across the English IPS community. It is hosted by the Caribbean & African Health Network and sponsored by Social Finance.

Who is eligible?
To be nominated, a person must be:

• of Black African, Black Caribbean, or Mixed Black heritage
• working within an IPS service in England
• making a clear and positive difference through their work

Who can submit a nomination?
Nominations can be made by colleagues, partners, or people who use services. Self-nominations are also welcome.

What we’re looking for?
Nominees should demonstrate strength in one or more of the following areas (this list is indicative, not exhaustive):

• Impact on employment
  Clear evidence of supporting people into paid employment, actively removing barriers experienced by service users or communities, and delivering person‑centred, strengths‑based IPS practice.
• Commitment to equity and inclusion in IPS delivery
  Evidence of challenging racism or inequity within services or systems, improving access, experience, or outcomes for service users, and demonstrating advocacy or leadership aligned with race equity frameworks.
• Excellence in IPS practice, leadership and innovation
  Evidence of high-quality IPS delivery, innovation in how IPS is delivered or integrated, and/or leadership that influences services or systems.
• Contribution beyond the individual role
  Evidence of mentoring or supporting others, building inclusive and supportive teams, and sharing learning or good practice locally or regionally.
• Evidence and reflection on impact
  Clear examples of change or impact, supported by reflection on what has been achieved and why it matters.