The PEN Awards showcase innovative approaches that place people at the heart of care. They demonstrate the impact that listening, co-production and compassionate leadership can have on improving experiences and outcomes.

Learning from the Best in 2026 highlights practical approaches to improving quality, safety, inclusion and person centred care by drawing on examples from award-winning initiatives across the UK. The projects we celebrate and feature align closely with the ongoing ambitions of the NHS 10 Year Plan for England and provide inspiration for healthcare leaders, commissioners, policymakers, patient experience professionals and service improvement teams.

Download the paper to explore proven examples of innovation and improvement, discover what success looks like in practice, and make the highest quality, person centred care for all a reality in your organisation.