Voting is now open.
This award recognises outstanding young individuals aged 30 or under (by 4th June 2026) who are working in health or social care roles within NHS Ayrshire & Arran or the Health & Social Care Partnership. It celebrates those in the early stages of their career who have demonstrated exceptional dedication, innovation, or impact in their field.
Finalists:
- Rachael Picken, General Practice Pharmacy Support Worker (North Ayrshire)
- Mhairi Millar, Principal Pharmacist, Pharmacotherapy and East Health & Social Care Partnership
- Hannah MacMillan, Senior Assistant Accountant
Read their amazing nominations below and vote for your winner!
Rachael Picken, General Practice Pharmacy Support Worker (North Ayrshire)
Rachael has been an outstanding addition to the North Ayrshire pharmacy support worker team since joining in November 2024. She has quickly become a valued member, demonstrating adaptability, strong communication and a positive impact on daily workflow. Her support enables pharmacy technicians and pharmacists to focus on clinical tasks, improving patient care. Rachael is dedicated to developing her skills, showing resilience by pursuing night classes and contributing to new workstreams such as the non‑medicines group. Her professionalism, teamwork and commitment to learning make her a real asset to the service.
Mhairi Millar, Principal Pharmacist, Pharmacotherapy and East Health & Social Care Partnership
Mhairi became Principal Pharmacist for Pharmacotherapy in April 2025 and has excelled in leading both the PCPIP (Primary Care Phased Investment Programme) and the East Ayrshire HSCP pharmacotherapy team. She consistently demonstrates compassion, professionalism and exceptional leadership. Her innovative approach transformed how medication reviews are recorded and monitored, creating an electronic system that improved visibility, performance and patient safety. As a result, polypharmacy reviews increased by 108% in Q3 alone. Mhairi supports colleagues through change, welcomes ideas, and collaborates across teams. Her drive, creativity and commitment embody the qualities of a true Young Achiever.
Hannah MacMillan, Senior Assistant Accountant
Hannah joined the Management Accounting Team in October 2023 and quickly established herself as a future star. Mature, hard‑working and an excellent communicator, she progressed from Band 4 to Band 5 within a year and continues to excel in her ACCA studies. Hannah has recently been appointed the national lead for all ACCA students in NHS Scotland and also supports colleagues locally to ensure fair and consistent study arrangements. She is highly respected by peers, monitors progress confidently, and leads by example. Hannah’s dedication and professionalism mark her as an exceptional talent and a future senior manager.