The phenomenal success of psychiatrists at the Royal College of Psychiatry Awards has demonstrated the strength of practice and training at Oxford Health.

A total of 12 colleagues won or secured a finalist position across seven categories.

Dr Monty Lyman, from the Adult Mental Health Assessment & Treatment Team North, was named Trainee  Innovator of the Year and Dr Shah Faisal Tarfarosh, from the Adult Mental Health Assessment & Treatment Team City was named Trainee Peer of the Year.

Trainee Innovator of the Year 2024

Dr Monty Lyman

Monty Lyman was recognised for his work communicating complex scientific concepts to a general audience through his popular science books, as well as his ongoing research exploring links between physical and mental health. Monty is also the first psychiatry trainee to be enrolled on the University of Oxford’s new ‘Doctor of Medicine’ degree, where he is exploring the use of the ketogenic diet for people living with psychosis.

His latest book The Immune Mind, hits bookstores this week and explores immuno-psychiatry  – the connection between the mind, immune system and microbiome.

Monty said: “’It’s so wonderful to have your work recognised, but even better to hear about such a varied and inspirational group of finalists. It is immensely encouraging to learn about the interesting and important work being carried out by colleagues across the South East”.

Trainee Peer of the Year 2024

Shah F Tarfarosh

Shah F Tarfarosh is a doctor with the Adult Mental Health Assessment & Treatment Team City and a passionate clinician and educator, whose enthusiasm, imagination, energy and collaboration inspires colleagues.

His recent projects have included leading training and development events and seminars, social networking events, trainee developments clubs and peer support groups at the trust, University of Oxford, and the Oxford Deanery.

His work to improve conditions for trainee doctors has included policy and process change for on-call doctors, advocacy, the trustwide Two Mindful Minutes project promoting mindfulness for staff.

Shah said: “At Oxford Health, we champion patient care alongside advocacy, mentorship and high-performance coaching for peers. The strength and guidance we share not only build personal resilience but also create a culture of collective excellence, driving meaningful organisational impact. Winning this award fills me with gratitude and strengthens my commitment to our collective mission.”

Celebrating their success was Chief Medical Officer Karl Marlowe.

He said: “At Oxford Health we strive to provide a positive platform where clinicians are enabled to grow, excel and thrive. To have 13 colleagues, winners and finalists, in this year’s RC Psych Awards for the South East is an outstanding achievement. Congratulations to everyone involved.”

Foundation Doctor of the Year 2024:

Finalist: Dr Bethany Elder

Core Trainee of the Year 2024:

Finalists: Dr Isabel Leach & Dr Anneka Tomlinson

Higher Trainee of the Year 2024:

Finalists: Dr Heidi Cooper, Dr Douglas Kohler & Dr Anna Mead-Robson

Trainee Peer of the Year 2024:

Winner: Dr Shah F Tarfarosh

Finalist: Dr Douglas Kohler

Trainee Innovator of the Year 2024:

Winner: Dr Montague (Monty) Lyman

Finalist: Dr Jacek Lindner

Psychiatric Trainer of the Year 2024:

Finalists: Dr Hasanen Al-Taiar & Dr Daniel Maughan

Psychiatric Trainer and Trainee Project of the Year 2024:

Finalist: Prof Rupert McShane and Dr Jacek Lindner for their leadership of the Ketamine and Related Compounds International Journal Club (KIJC)