Looking for some true inspiration? Look no further than Cormack Mylchreest, this year’s winner of the National MyPorter Awards Newcomer of the Year. Cormack is a shining example of resilience, determination, and the kind of spirit that lifts others up.
The competition was fierce, but Cormack’s remarkable journey stood out to the panel of NHS England judges: Phil Shelley, Emma Brookes, Sheila Connolly, and Fay Lane. Their decision was clear - Cormack’s story of overcoming adversity and contributing to the community is nothing short of extraordinary.
Born as the very first baby of 2002 at Chelsea and Westminster Trust, where he now works as a dedicated member of the portering team, Cormack’s journey to success has been anything but easy. Unlike many, he has battled through more challenges than most could imagine. Born with cerebral palsy, Cormack has spent much of his life in physiotherapy at the very hospital that nurtured him - both as a child and as an adult. While portering is a job that demands physical stamina and agility, Cormack has defied the odds. Despite needing splints from an early age, which helped him learn to walk, Cormack’s determination has always been unshakable. He remains deeply grateful for the support of the physiotherapists and orthotists who have helped him every step of the way.
But Cormack’s journey wasn’t just about receiving help - it was about giving back. With a deep desire to contribute to the hospital that had supported him, he began his career as a pharmacy intern, stocking shelves three days a week. His first pay packet went straight into savings, but Cormack’s heart yearned for more. Wanting to be of greater service, he applied to become a volunteer, making him happy that he is able to don the iconic purple T-shirt that all volunteers wear. Whether it was making pharmacy deliveries, assisting in the x-ray department, or pushing chairs and beds, Cormack’s days were always filled with purpose.
While volunteering, Cormack continued to focus on his personal fitness, pushing himself to complete the Thames Bridge Trek - a 25km journey with his personal trainer. So impressed was his trainer that she encouraged Cormack to take on an even greater challenge: walking 56km of an 100km trek, a feat unheard of for someone with cerebral palsy. His incredible achievement raised over £1,500 for SCOPE, and in recognition of his determination, Cormack was awarded a Youth Achievement Award for overcoming his disability and raising funds for charity, including walking 500 miles to support food banks in December 2022.
However, when funding for his pharmacy role ran out, Cormack faced a crossroads. But he knew exactly where he wanted to go next. Inspired by his volunteer work, he set his sights on becoming a healthcare porter. The dream was simple: to carry the “magic key” that only porters had, which granted priority access throughout the hospital. With the support of the volunteer services, Cormack honed his skills, eventually landing an interview just before Easter.
The day of the interview, his mother eagerly awaited his text, which always arrived at lunchtime with a picture of his sandwich. But this time, when his message came, it contained just three words: “Got the job.” Overcome with emotion, his mother couldn’t hold back the tears. That evening, the family celebrated with their favourite meal -sausages and mash.
Today, Cormack is not only a healthcare porter two days a week but also a dedicated volunteer three days a week. His volunteer manager describes him as an enthusiastic, dedicated, and incredibly positive individual, always offering support and a big smile. Colleagues and hospital staff see Cormack as a true inspiration - his warmth and spirit leave a lasting impact on everyone he meets.
The National MyPorter Awards, in association with NHS England, took place in central London, where Cormack was honoured alongside other outstanding individuals. One of the other recipients was Laura Ward of Bradford Teaching Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust, whose quick thinking saved a young patient from a dangerous situation whereby they were threatening to jump from a high ledge. Eddie Thawe from Guy’s and St Thomas’ NHS Foundation Trust won the prestigious Porter of the Year Award for his unwavering dedication and compassionate approach, despite facing personal loss.
Other notable winners included Alan Sutton of Mersey and West Lancashire Teaching Hospitals NHS Trust, who was awarded the Dennis Southern Lifetime Achievement Award for going above and beyond during many years of service, exemplified in one instance in caring for a distressed dementia patient who had lost their beloved Tom The Teddy Dog, and Karen Horan, who transferred her extensive logistics experience from the British Army to the NHS, which saw her win Leadership of the Year.
Phil Shelley, Senior Operational Manager at NHS England, commented, “The overwhelming number of nominations we received proves just how vital portering services are to the smooth operation of our hospitals. The dedication of these incredible individuals truly highlights the importance of the work they do every day.”
The Full List of Winners:
- Newcomer of the Year: Cormack Mylchreest – Chelsea and Westminster Hospital Trust
- Leadership of the Year: Karen Horan – Northumbria Healthcare
- Outstanding Contribution to Patient Experience: Laura Ward – Bradford Teaching Hospital Foundation Trust
- Portering Team of the Year: Barnsley Hospital Portering Team
- Dennis Southern Lifetime Achievement: Alan Sutton – Mersey and West Lancashire Teaching Hospitals NHS Trust
- Porter of the Year: Eddie Thawe – Guy’s and St Thomas’ NHS Foundation Trust
- International Porter of the Year: Robin Boleat – Jersey General Hospital
Congratulations to all the incredible winners, nominees, and finalists - each one an example of the passion and dedication that fuels the portering profession.
For inquiries or more information about the National MyPorter Awards, please contact:
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Or visit: MyPorter Awards
