LCH digital lead recognised as unsung hero

Amanda Jackson, Associate Chief Clinical Information Officer and Digital Inclusion Lead at Leeds Community Healthcare NHS Trust (LCH), has been recognised as an AireFest Unsung Hero for her outstanding commitment to tackling digital exclusion and improving access to healthcare for local communities.

AireFest brings together NHS clinicians, frontline staff, health and care leaders, researchers and technologists to share ideas, learn from one another and celebrate innovation across health and care. The Unsung Hero recognition shines a light on individuals whose everyday actions make a meaningful difference to patients, colleagues and communities.

Amanda, who began her career as a nurse and Specialist Community Public Health Nurse, now works in digital health but remains focused on improving outcomes for patients and staff. Alongside her role, she has gone above and beyond to support people who are digitally excluded, creating Digital Inclusion Hubs across Leeds to help residents access technology, build digital skills and gain confidence in using online services.

Amanda was nominated in recognition of her passion and dedication to ensuring that no one is left behind as healthcare services become increasingly digital. While digital inclusion is not solely part of her role, she has worked tirelessly to establish support networks that help people access healthcare, information and vital services.

Presenting Amanda's award at AireFest, Emma Raftery-Kenworthy, AireLogic Marketing Lead and Equity Charter Member said: "I was particularly proud to present Amanda's award. Amanda is one of those amazing people who genuinely cares about digital inclusion, but she isn't passive about it. A true advocate, Amanda created the Digital Inclusion Hubs which run throughout Leeds and are genuinely changing the lives of Leeds residents."

Speaking about her recognition, Amanda said: "Winning an Unsung Hero Award means a great deal because it shines a light on the importance of digital inclusion. Behind the project are patients and staff whose lives can be made easier by having the confidence and support to access healthcare digitally. Seeing that difference first-hand is what drives me, and I feel privileged to set up a lasting piece of work that helps people feel more connected, independent and supported."

Amanda's work is rooted in her clinical experience and her belief that digital inclusion is fundamentally about equity and access.

She said: "Throughout my career, I've worked with people facing challenges that go far beyond their immediate health needs. As more services move online, I've become increasingly aware that many people are being left behind, whether that's because they don't have access to a device, can't afford data or lack digital skills.

For me, digital inclusion isn't really about technology. It's about fairness. It's about making sure everyone has the same opportunity to access healthcare, information and support, regardless of their circumstances."

As part of AireFest, Amanda also took part as a panel member in a Dragon's Den-style neighbourhood health session, where innovative ideas aimed at improving health and wellbeing within communities were showcased. The winning team was awarded £5,000 to donate to a charity of their choice, highlighting the event's focus on collaboration, innovation and community impact.

Amanda's recognition reflects Leeds Community Healthcare's commitment to reducing health inequalities and ensuring that everyone can benefit from digital healthcare services. Through the continued success of the Digital Inclusion Hubs, her work is making a lasting difference to residents across Leeds.