Helen Titu, the first cardiology nurse consultant at Wrightington, Wigan and Leigh Teaching Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust (WWL), was awarded the Chief Nursing Officer for England (CNO) Gold Award—the first in the trust’s history.
Gideon Agbemafle, a global majority practice development nurse in WWL’s professional education team, received the CNO Silver Award.
Duncan Burton, chief nursing officer for England, said: “Helen and Gideon embody what it means to be nurses.
“They are compassionate leaders, making real changes for their patients and communities, and supporting changes and wider improvements across the NHS.
“It was an honour to present CNO for England Awards to such deserving individuals recognising their work and dedication to our nursing profession.”
Ms Titu has more than 20 years of service and has pioneered nurse-led thrombolysis and transformed cardiac care delivery.
She is currently undertaking a Health Education England internship focused on early identification of heart disease risk factors.
Kev Parker-Evans, chief nursing officer at WWL, said: “Helen’s work is not just clinical—it’s deeply human.
“Her presence uplifts, her actions heal, and her impact endures.
“As well as being a relentless advocate for patient safety, ensuring life-saving interventions are accessible and effective, Helen is also known for her ability to put patients and families at ease during the most frightening moments, delivering care with deep empathy and kindness.”
Ms Titu said: “Receiving the Chief Nursing Officer Gold Award is an overwhelming honour.
“Patient safety remains at the heart of everything I do, and I remain committed to ensuring that every initiative I lead upholds the highest standards of care.”
Mr Agbemafle also serves as CNO/CMidO SAG fellow for NHS England (Northwest) and was recognised for championing equity-focused policy and practice across the NHS.
Mr Parker-Evans said: “Gideon is known for his empathy, approachability, and commitment to listening with staff regularly seeking his guidance.
“He fosters a culture of psychological safety and trust and embodies a deep personal commitment to justice and inclusion, consistently going above and beyond to uplift others and create lasting change.”