Jo's leadership drives HSJ Digital Award shortlist for acute oncology redesign | News

Groundbreaking work to transform non-surgical oncology services across Calderdale and Huddersfield NHS Foundation Trust (CHFT) and The Mid Yorkshire Teaching NHS Trust (MYTT) has been shortlisted for a prestigious HSJ Digital Award in the category ‘Driving Change Through Data and Analytics’.

The shortlisted entry - Acute Oncology Service Redesign - is led by Jo Lyle, Lead Nurse Consultant for the Non-surgical Oncology Programme, and recognises the powerful and innovative use of data to drive real service change.

The work forms part of a wider Non-surgical Oncology (NSO) partnership programme between CHFT and MYTT, including the newly refurbished inpatient unit at Huddersfield Royal Infirmary. The unit provides specialist non-surgical oncology care for patients from Calderdale, Kirklees and Wakefield who require hospital admission for cancer treatment. Delivered in partnership with MYTT, the service includes an Acute Oncology Assessment Unit and aims to enhance patient care through improved facilities, clearer pathways and strengthened support services.

Jo has played a pivotal role in shaping and advancing the agreed Target Operating Model (TOM) for a single acute oncology phoneline, providing strong clinical leadership, clear vision and deep expertise throughout the programme. The HSJ Digital Award celebrates the innovative and impactful use of data and analytics to transform services – an approach Jo has consistently championed with skill, commitment and an unwavering focus on patient safety and experience.

The nomination formally acknowledges the outstanding contribution of this work and the leadership behind it. The data analysed and applied through the redesign has enabled clinical teams to collaborate more closely across organisations on the development and implementation of the new phoneline. This joined-up approach has been particularly encouraging to see and will significantly improve patient care and experience, while also enhancing staff satisfaction and confidence in their roles.

Reflecting on the shortlist recognition, Jo Lyle said: “I am genuinely surprised and delighted to see this work shortlisted for an HSJ Award.

 "It reflects not only the commitment of our teams, but the growing confidence of nurses to use data intelligently and courageously to improve care.

"When nurses are equipped with meaningful data and supported to interpret it, they become a powerful force for change, able to challenge assumptions, redesign services, and deliver safer, more sustainable outcomes for patients.”

The winners will be announced on 19 May 2026.