The Macmillan Cancer Support and Boots UK partnership was honoured with three awards at the 2015 Corporate Engagement Awards last night including the most prestigious award of the event, the Grand Prix Award.

The Grand Prix Award is given to the partnership which all judges see as the clear winner of all entrants in all categories and stands out the most. Judges described the Boots Macmillan partnership as ‘A brilliant initiative that is changing lives through increase awareness and self belief and support.’

Claire Singlehurst, Director of Corporate and Regional Fundraising, at Macmillan Cancer Support said: “To receive the Grand Prix Award for working together to improve the lives of everyone living with cancer is incredible!  Six years into our partnership, our support for people affected by cancer is ever-increasing, with more Boots UK colleagues being trained and our innovative partnership working between stores and local Macmillan services. It is a strong sector-leading partnership of which we are really proud.”

Una Kent, Director of Corporate Communications and Social Innovation from Boots UK, says “Every day in our stores our specially trained Boots Macmillan Information Pharmacists and Boots Macmillan Beauty Advisors are talking to and supporting people affected by cancer.  As a result we know first-hand how important it is for them to be able the access the information they need and that we know will make a difference to their everyday lives, in a familiar and trusted environment. This award is all about recognising their amazing efforts.”

There are now over 2,000 Boots Macmillan Information Pharmacists; better equipped through the partnership to provide in-store information and support, and over 400 trained Boots Macmillan Beauty Advisors helping people manage the visible side effects of cancer.

Boots Macmillan Information Pharmacist, Sanjay Nathwani, says: “I chose this profession because I wanted to make a difference. When the Boots Macmillan Information Pharmacist role came about I seized the opportunity.

“It’s wonderful to be able to support people affected by cancer. Customers have told me it’s great we’re available on the high street, because cancer care shouldn’t stop at the hospital. It’s a great feeling once you help someone and they feel like they can take more ownership of their condition.”

The partnership was also awarded Gold in the Most Innovative Collaboration Award, which recognises organisations who have worked collaboratively to deliver impact and change and Silver in the Most Effective Long Term Programme Award category for its achievements which demonstrate a highly effective long term programme.