Shire opens nomination process for Brave Awards

Shire has begun accepting nominations for its Brave Awards scheme, which aims to highlight the work of non-professional caregivers across the world.

People in ten countries – including the UK, US, Canada, France, Germany, Spain and Australia – are being encouraged to nominate a caregiver they consider worthy of recognition between now and June 17th 2012.

The programme has been developed and implemented by Shire as a means of placing the spotlight on everyday heroes who provide time, support and compassion for those who are unable to care for themselves.

Nearly 400 nominations were received in 2011, the inaugural year of the awards, with up to ten winners set to be awarded prizes of $10,000 (6,260 pounds) this year.

Angus Russell, Shire's chief executive officer, said: "Voluntary caregivers are often unsung heroes and the Brave Awards recognise the important and sometimes undervalued caregiver role that family, friends and neighbours play in the lives of others around the world."

Last month, Shire itself was presented with the Eurordis Company Award from the European Organisation for Rare Diseases, thanks to its work in researching uncommon conditions.