Dr Charlotte Allan, a Specialist Trainee Doctor at Oxford Health NHS Foundation Trust, has been named Core Psychiatric Trainee of the Year 2011 by the Royal College of Psychiatrists.

The annual RCPsych Awards mark the highest level of achievement within psychiatry, and are designed to recognise and reward excellent practice in the field of mental health.

Dr Allan was presented with her award by Professor Sir Neil Douglas, Chairman of the Academy of Medical Royal Colleges, at a prestigious ceremony held at the Royal Society of Medicine on 15th November and hosted by actress Maureen Lipman.

Competition for the RCPsych Awards is extremely tough, and Charlotte was shortlisted to the final 4 entrants. The judging panels were impressed by the quality of this year’s entries but said: “Dr Charlotte Allan was chosen as Core Psychiatric Trainee of the Year due to her exceptional achievements in both her clinical and academic work. Dr Allan has consistently demonstrated leadership, initiative and innovation with inspirational results during her short career in psychiatry.”

Professor Sue Bailey, President of the Royal College of Psychiatrists, said: “Through the RCPsych Awards, we bring national recognition to outstanding psychiatrists. On behalf of the College, I congratulate Dr Allan and wish her a hugely successful and enjoyable career in psychiatry.”

Julie Waldron, CEO, Oxford Health NHS Foundation Trust said “This is an excellent achievement and I am so pleased for Charlotte. I know that she is an exceptional trainee and the Trust is delighted that her hard work and dedication towards her specialism have been recognised at such a prestigious event.”