Published on 22 October 2026
A nursing leader who has helped improve support for people affected by cancer across Cheshire and Merseyside has received a prestigious Chief Nursing Officer (CNO) Gold Award in recognition of her outstanding service to the NHS.
Pat Gillis, Associate Director and Lead Nurse at Cheshire and Merseyside Cancer Alliance (CMCA), was recognised for her contribution to cancer nursing, including her work developing a regional Cancer Nursing Strategy and introducing a new digital toolkit to help professionals connect patients with additional support.
Pat, who was presented with the award at CMCA’s Clinical Leads Event in Liverpool, said: “I am incredibly honoured to receive this award. It is a privilege to work alongside such dedicated colleagues across Cheshire and Merseyside, all committed to improving the experience and outcomes of people affected by cancer.
“This recognition reflects the collective effort of the teams and partners I have had the pleasure of working with throughout my career. It is also for every nurse I have ever worked with.”
Cheshire and Merseyside Cancer Nursing Strategy was created under Pat’s leadership to help shape and strengthen nursing services for people affected by cancer across the region.
She also led the launch of a digital toolkit designed to help professionals signpost patients to support for their psychological wellbeing and social needs, recognising that the impact of cancer can extend far beyond physical health.
Before joining CMCA, Pat was Cancer Services Manager at St Helens and Knowsley Teaching Hospitals NHS Trust. During her time there, she helped launch an advice line for people concerned about possible cancer symptoms, providing a route for people to seek guidance about their worries.
Jon Hayes, Director of Cheshire and Merseyside Cancer Alliance, said: “Pat’s commitment, leadership and compassion have made a lasting difference to cancer services across our region.
“She has worked tirelessly to strengthen support for patients and staff, and this well-deserved award recognises the significant contribution she has made to nursing and to the people of Cheshire and Merseyside.”
The CNO Gold Award recognises exceptional contributions to nursing and midwifery. It celebrates outstanding achievements and performance across a range of areas, including clinical practice, education, research and leadership.
The award is intended to recognise individuals whose distinguished careers have made a significant contribution to their profession and the people they serve.
Pat’s recognition highlights the key role of nursing leadership in developing cancer services, improving access to support and ensuring that people affected by cancer can be guided towards the help they need.
Her work across Cheshire and Merseyside has focused on strengthening the support available to patients and addressing the wider emotional and social challenges that can accompany a cancer diagnosis.