Recognising safeguarding excellence across NHS Wales

The inaugural NHS Wales Safeguarding Celebration Event took place in March 2026 at Cardiff Castle. The event recognised safeguarding excellence across teams and individuals, highlighting the meaningful and impactful work taking place every day throughout NHS Wales

The event was organised by the National Safeguarding Service, a team of experts based in Public Health Wales who provide a strategic focus and professional lead in order to improve safeguarding across the NHS in Wales.

Awards Background
Safeguarding is a vital, complex and often unseen area of practice. Staff from all professions, disciplines and services work to protect people’s safety, dignity and rights, frequently in challenging circumstances and without formal recognition.

This event offered time to pause, reflect, and celebrate that contribution, and to recognise safeguarding practice that has made a real difference to people’s lives. Celebrations concluded with a musical recital and afternoon tea at the Cardiff Castle venue.

Nominations
Nominations were encouraged from all professional groups, disciplines and service areas. Entries were reviewed by a senior safeguarding judging panel using clear and consistent criteria.

Safeguarding Leadership Award
This award goes to Claire O’Keefe and recognises a leader whose vision, courage, and integrity have transformed safeguarding in Wales.

Louise Mann, Director of Safeguarding at Public Health Wales noted:

“Claire O’Keefe is Head of Safeguarding at Cwm Taf Morgannwg UHB. Claire leads with clarity, compassion, and professional courage, inspiring colleagues, partners, and the wider system to raise standards, reflect honestly, and focus relentlessly on protecting those at risk.

Her influence has shaped organisational and regional safeguarding culture, fostered collaboration, and strengthened the way we learn and improve. Claire’s values-based leadership with both head and heart makes her a truly outstanding safeguarding leader.”