University Hospitals of Leicester NHS Trust (UHL) is celebrating after Dalvir Kandola was named Midwife of the Year at the 2025 Nursing Times Awards.
The Nursing Times Awards recognises excellence and innovation in nursing and midwifery across the UK, with 25 categories highlighting best practice and the impact of compassionate, evidence-based care.
Dalvir’s work to make maternity care fair for everyone really stood out to the judges. They praised her strong leadership, the way she supports her team, and how she creates welcoming places that truly help families.
This year’s awards were particularly special for UHL, with another midwife, Clare Robinson, also named as a finalist. Having two outstanding midwives recognised at this level reflects the commitment, compassion, and innovation across UHL’s maternity services.
Karradene Aird, Head of Midwifery said: “We are immensely proud of Dalvir’s achievement and of Clare’s recognition as a finalist. Their dedication to delivering equitable, person-centred care reflects the very best of our maternity services at UHL. Dalvir’s leadership has been instrumental in challenging inequality and driving meaningful change for women and families across our communities.”
Dalvir said: “Our profession thrives when all voices are heard, and I am proud that the work around inclusion in perinatal services at UHL has been recognised nationally.
Esther Olivier-Allen, Specialist Midwife, nominated Clare Robinson for her long-standing dedication to maternity safeguarding and the exceptional expertise she brings to her role.
“Clare is deeply passionate about sharing her wealth of knowledge through mandatory training and supervision,” explained Esther.
“Clare ensures all staff feel confident and equipped to maintain the highest standards of safety and protection for women and their unborn babies, and her commitment and professionalism have rightly been recognised as a national finalist – an incredible and well-deserved achievement.”
Attendance at the ceremony was supported by Leicester Hospitals Charity.