Two hospital security guards have received a national award for helping to save a young woman’s life.

Ali Jallow and Andy Tobin won the ‘Unsung Hero’ prize from health careers company GoToJobBoard for preventing a distressed patient from jumping off a bridge.

Ali and Andy were working their shift at Stepping Hill Hospital’s busy A&E department when they noticed a woman in an upset state leaving the department. Concerned for her welfare, Ali and Andy followed her, trying to convince her to return.

The woman made her way to a railway bridge, and then attempted to throw herself onto the train tracks beneath. A fight to save her life took place, with the woman attacking the security guards and landing several harsh blows. Eventually the pair managed to grab the woman’s arms and legs to prevent her jumping, and escort her back to the hospital.

The GoToJobBoard ‘Unsung Hero‘ awards are for non-nursing and non-medical NHS staff, such as porters, cleaners, receptionists and security guards who have gone the extra mile to help patients and public. Winners were honoured at a special ceremony hosted by Roy Lilley, a health policy analyst, writer, broadcaster and commentator on the NHS. 

Andy Tobin has since moved on to another job outside of Stepping Hill and was unable to attend, but Ali Jallow accepted on behalf of them both, together with other award winners from across the country. Ali Jallow said, “I was so surprised when my name was announced. I will always to by best to help others, knowing fully well that the sacrifices are not in vain.”

GoToJob operations manager Mark Cherry said, “Every Unsung Hero Award winner represents some of the most hard working and dedicated non-medical staff in the NHS today. The NHS doesn’t get enough credit, especially when it comes to non-medical staff, so it’s great to host these awards and make NHS staff feel special and proud of the hard work they do every day.”

Ann Barnes, chief executive of Stockport NHS Foundation Trust, which runs Stepping Hill said: “I’m delighted that Ali and Andy have won this award. They are real heroes who showed courage and compassion in doing their utmost to save this young woman’s life. They are an absolute credit to our organisation, their colleagues and their families.”