It’s National Apprenticeship Week and we’re proud to celebrate Aaron Gough, our Assistant Management Accountant, who has picked up a regional award.
Aaron has been named the honour at the Joined Up Care Derbyshire (JUCD) Apprenticeship Awards (JUCD) 2025/26 in the Degree/Level 6-7 category. He was presented with the award at DHU’s headquarters in Derby by Bryony Greenhalgh and Lauren Adkin from JUCD recognising a six year journey with DHU.
Aaron joined as a Level 2 apprentice and has progressed through Levels 3 and 4, most recently completing the demanding CIMA Level 5-7 programme, balancing full-time work with twelve professional exams, long days of study and a complete re-organisation of his routine.
Now an Assistant Management accountant in DHU’s Finance and Payroll Team, he told us: “It’s been tough, but worth it in the end. I’ve had to reshape my life around studying, but the support from the team has been brilliant and it’s an absolute honour to receive this award and I’m looking forward to continuing to develop my career in Finance with DHU.”
Sarah Cooper, Head of Finance, who nominated Aaron for the award, praised his determination and the difference he is already making, saying: “Aaron’s commitment to his development has been exceptional. He’s shown real resilience balancing a demanding qualification alongside his role, and he consistently applies what he’s learning to improve the way we work. Strong financial management is vital to delivering safe, effective services for our patients, and Aaron’s contribution directly supports that. He’s a credit to DHU and a fantastic example of how apprenticeships help people build meaningful, long-term careers.”
Aaron was keen to recognise that support, adding. “It feels great to be recognised for the work you put in. I’m really appreciative of Sarah and the whole team for the encouragement they’ve given me.”
Although his role sits behind the scenes, Aaron’s work plays an important part in ensuring resources are used effectively so that frontline teams can focus on what matters most, providing high-quality care for patients and communities. His success highlights how every role across DHU contributes to better outcomes for the people we serve.
The JUCD team hope Aaron’s achievement will inspire others, whether new starters or existing colleagues, to consider apprenticeships as a route to develop new skills and reach their potential.
From everyone at DHU Healthcare, congratulations Aaron. We’re incredibly proud of you and can’t wait to see what you achieve next.
