What was your role then?
Head of human resources for forensic services at the Metropolitan Police, providing HR leadership to around 1,200 forensic officers across London
And where are you now?
Chief executive of Therapy 4 Healing, a social enterprise supporting vulnerable communities with complementary health and wellbeing services in South East London. I also lead a range of health equity and preventative health projects in partnership with the NHS, Public Health and the voluntary sector aimed at tackling health inequalities experienced by the communities of South East London.
Tell us a little about your career journey since you won the award
Winning the award was a significant moment. I was promoted the following year and went on to hold wider senior HR roles within the Met, including occupational health and later HR for the National Counter Terrorism Policing HQ, working across all 43 UK police forces.
I then took time out to work internationally, including in India and Haiti, which strengthened my commitment to equity and community-based support. When I returned to the UK, I moved fully into the VCSE sector.
You won the Efficiency Government Award – can you tell us more about what that involved and how it came about?
It was a project which transformed the culture around sickness absence and wellbeing in Forensic Services. We reduced sickness absence by the equivalent of 6.45 working years, and did so by building trust and improving the working environment for staff dealing with emotionally, mentally and physically demanding work.
What were the main challenges that you recall?
Changing perceptions of HR from enforcement to support. Forensic officers manage highly sensitive and often traumatic material, so building confidence in the process took time, consistency and clear leadership.
What lesson did you take from the project?
That efficiency and compassion go hand in hand. Sustainable improvement comes when people feel respected and supported. That principle has shaped every role I’ve held since.
What is your strongest memory of the night you won?
We’d never been to Lancaster House – we had no idea what to expect. It was a fabulous evening with canapes and drinks and a wonderful historic setting… we really couldn’t believe it. We were all under 32 so this was probably the most extravagant event we had ever been to and we were also winners! Andrew Marr calling me “Naomi McGun” while standing there with his broken leg. It broke the tension in the room and it still makes me smile.
Who did you tell first?
My team, who could not attend with us. They were central to the project and I wanted them to hear it from me first. Then I think I told the [Met] commissioner!
What impact did winning have on you, personally or professionally?
Professionally, it opened doors and led directly to new opportunities, including my promotion the following year. Personally, it affirmed that the quieter, behind-the-scenes work can have a major impact. The work later received further recognition, including as runner-up in the CIPD People Management Awards (2007).
Do you have any advice for this year’s winners and shortlisted teams about making the most of their achievement?
Celebrate it properly and use it. These awards give you visibility, credibility and opportunities. And remember that every award reflects collective effort.