Staff from NHS Devon who are working to tackle domestic abuse and sexual violence have triumphed in this year's NHS parliamentary awards.

The NHS Devon team was nominated by three local MPs – Ben Bradshaw, Simon Jupp and Richard Foord.

The award is in recognition of the work NHS Devon has done to improve how GPs and hospitals respond to people who have experienced domestic abuse or sexual violence.

Winners were chosen from nine categories, announced at an awards ceremony in Westminster on Wednesday, (July 5). The NHS’s 75th birthday. The domestic abuse and sexual violence team at NHS Devon won the Excellence in Primary and Community Care category.

Jane Milligan, Chief Officer at NHS Devon, said: “I’m extremely proud that our local services have been recognised in this way by our local MPs.

“It highlights NHS Devon’s pioneering commitment to tackling domestic abuse and sexual violence and supporting people who are survivors.

“The team have been working incredibly hard to improve the way people can access support and services locally, reducing the risk and giving people the care and support they really need.”

Richard Foord, MP for Tiverton and Honiton, said: “The Excellence in Primary and Community Care award is so very well deserved. The Domestic Abuse and Sexual Violence team at NHS Devon has rightly been recognised nationally for their work with partners to provide preventative, early help, support, and recovery services. The NHS Parliamentary Award is very prestigious, and I am delighted that the team has received the recognition they deserve.”

Simon Jupp, MP for East Devon, said: “I am delighted that NHS Devon are receiving national recognition for their crucial work supporting sexual and domestic abuse victims, pioneering a GP-oriented approach which should be considered for other parts of the UK. I’m especially thankful for their amazing efforts in East Devon. They are a credit to our fantastic NHS family.”

Ben Bradshaw, MP for Exeter, said: "I'm incredibly proud to see the team from NHS Devon recognised for their trailblazing work in this area. On the 75th birthday of the NHS, it is a timely reminder of the importance of supporting staff and volunteers so that they can continue to develop such innovative, life-changing ideas."