Resuscitation Council UK reveals winners of Excellence in Resuscitation Awards 2025

Resuscitation Council UK is proud to announce the winners of the second annual Excellence in Resuscitation Awards. The awards are a celebration of individuals who have gone above and beyond in their commitment to saving lives and improving outcomes for people who have suffered a cardiac arrest.

Now in their second year, the awards recognise extraordinary achievements in resuscitation, education and leadership, and are named in honour of three influential figures in the field: Judith George, Sam Richmond, and Peter Baskett.

The 2025 winners are: 

Judith George Unsung Hero of Immediate Care Award - Neil MacKay

Sam Richmond NLS Nursing and Midwifery Award - Elizabeth Schonewald

Peter Baskett Mentor Award - Angela Wagstaff

Neil MacKay, a Critical Care Paramedic with the North West Air Ambulance and Quality Assurance and Service Improvement Lead for Lynas Clinical Safety Limited, is the recipient of this year’s Judith George Award. 

Over the past five years, Neil has been a relentless advocate for improving out-of-hospital cardiac arrest (OHCA) care in Manchester. His work has culminated in the launch of the Greater Manchester OHCA pathway - allowing patients to be taken directly to cardiac arrest centres. A respected ALS Course Director and passionate educator, Neil’s leadership and data-driven advocacy have helped reshape cardiac care delivery across the region. 

Accepting the award, Neil said: “I am deeply humbled to accept the Judith George Award, and I share this recognition with all my colleagues who worked with me to launch the Greater Manchester and East Cheshire OHCA Pathway.”

Elizabeth Schonewald, recently retired Neonatal Practice Development Sister, is awarded the Sam Richmond Award for her long-standing commitment to newborn life support education. 

As an early NLS and ARNI instructor, Elizabeth developed neonatal resuscitation update training and days for new and experienced staff and has tirelessly contributed her time and expertise locally, regionally, nationally, and internationally. Her work in Vietnam, delivering tailored NLS education and mentoring local instructors, has had a life-saving impact in areas where perinatal mortality remains high.

 Accepting the award, Elizabeth said: "I am honoured to accept the award and to be able to continue the work that Dr Richmond began. I am passionate about sharing the skills I have learnt, widely, and through that to have met wonderful colleagues across the world who have helped to broaden my own knowledge."

Angela Wagstaff, a retired nurse and ALS Instructor, is the recipient of the Peter Baskett Award in recognition of her lifetime contribution to resuscitation training and mentorship. 

Angela has played a foundational role in shaping ALS instruction in Scotland for over two decades. Known for her generosity, wit and unwavering support of her peers and learners, Angela has inspired generations of clinicians and educators, always prioritising patient safety and excellence in care. 

Accepting the award, Angela said: “I am deeply honoured and privileged to be the recipient of the Peter Baskett award. Receiving this award is a testament to the incredible support and guidance I have received from my colleagues and mentors during my career. “It truly means the world to me to be recognised for my contributions and dedication.”

Professor Andy Lockey MBE, Vice President of Resuscitation Council UK, said: “The Excellence in Resuscitation Awards allow us to shine a spotlight on individuals who are true champions of resuscitation. Neil, Elizabeth and Angela exemplify the dedication, compassion and innovation that save lives. Through their leadership, education and mentorship, they have left a profound mark on their colleagues, communities and the wider world.”