News

A North London NHS Foundation Trust (NLFT) psychiatrist has been recognised for her leadership and commitment to supporting colleagues after winning a prestigious Royal College of Psychiatrists (RCPsych) London Division Award. 

Dr Sharmin Panna was named Specialty and Associate Specialist (SAS) Doctor of the Year at the RCPsych London Division Awards, an annual event celebrating outstanding contributions to mental healthcare across the capital. 

Dr Panna was recognised for her outstanding work in championing SAS doctors and creating opportunities for professional development across the Trust. As the Trust’s SAS Advocate, she has supported colleagues in navigating workplace challenges, promoted progression through the portfolio route, strengthened communication between SAS doctors and senior leaders, and established a Trust-wide SAS network. She has also introduced monthly drop-in sessions and launched two regular newsletters to celebrate the achievements and contributions of SAS doctors.

Alongside this, she has made significant contributions to medical education, teaching medical students, supporting rehabilitation teams and developing a 21-day training programme for forensic physicians in Bangladesh.

Her award nomination described her as:

"An outstanding and passionate SAS doctor whose advocacy has significantly raised the profile and support of SAS doctors within North London NHS Foundation Trust."

The award capped a successful year for NLFT at the London Division Awards, with six other Trust psychiatrists shortlisted in recognition of their contributions to mental health services, education and patient care.

Those shortlisted were:

• Dr Keiran Ferrier – Core Resident Doctor of the Year
• Dr Chern Yao Wong – Higher Resident Doctor of the Year
• Dr Hannah Campling – Psychiatrist of the Year
• Dr Seungyoun (Carolyn) Moon – SAS Doctor of the Year
• Dr Amina Tareen – Psychiatric Educator of the Year 

 

Dr Stefania Bonaccorso, Consultant Psychiatrist, Clinical Director Inpatients Services and Co-Director of Medical Education said:

"We are incredibly proud of Dr Panna and all our shortlisted colleagues. Their commitment to improving the lives of service users, supporting colleagues and advancing mental health education reflects the very best of NLFT."

Award winners were announced at a ceremony in London on 24 June, bringing together clinicians from across London to celebrate excellence in psychiatric practice and mental healthcare.

Further information about the awards and this year's winners is available on the Royal College of Psychiatrists website.