Congratulations Katie: Making history for AHP Support Workers

Congratulations to Katie Ellis, Allied Health Professional (AHP) Support Workforce Lead at Sheffield Children’s, who has been awarded a Chief Allied Health Professions Officer (CAHPO) Gold Award. 

Introduced in 2024, the CAHPO Gold Award recognises exceptional contribution and leadership across the AHP workforce. This year, only 10 awards were presented nationally – and Katie made history as the first AHP Support Worker to ever receive this honour. 

The Allied Health Professions (AHPs) are the third largest clinical workforce in the health and care.  They are a distinct group of registered healthcare clinicians – separate from doctors and nurses – who provide specialised diagnostic, technical, therapeutic, and rehabilitative care. 

Katie was recognised for her outstanding leadership and commitment to embedding the voice of AHP Support Workers at Sheffield Children’s and across South Yorkshire. In a pioneering role – the first of its kind in the region – she has challenged traditional hierarchies, championed inclusion, and ensured support workers are visible, valued, and represented within AHP strategy and leadership. 

Reflecting on the award, Katie said: “Strong AHP services and strong AHP leadership are vital for the future of the NHS. When AHPs, including support workers, are part of the conversation, we can innovate, influence change, and help shape the services our patients need.” 

She also paid tribute to the AHP leadership at Sheffield Children’s, highlighting the support and belief of Debbi Rowley, Advanced Physiotherapist AHP Workforce Lead and Mandy Higginbottom, Lead Allied Health Professional and Quality Improvement Director as instrumental to her journey. 

This is a proud moment for Katie, for AHP Support Workers, and for Sheffield Children’s. The kind of moment that reflects 150 years of progress and a willingness to keep trying new things.