FIVE charities working across Keighley and Bradford are celebrating after being shortlisted in a national awards scheme.

The honour for the so-called Multi-Agency Support Team – or MAST – is in the NHS Parliamentary Awards.

MAST was nominated in the Excellence in Urgent and Emergency Care category, in recognition of its work at Airedale Hospital, Steeton, and Bradford Royal Infirmary.

The team – which began its work two years ago – comprises representatives of Keighley-based drug and alcohol agency Project 6, Carers' Resource, The Cellar Trust, HALE and Keighley Healthy Living, based in Scott Street.

By providing help and support to people who regularly present at A&E, team members aim to reduce the pressure on the hospital emergency departments.

Each organisation focuses on a different specialist area, working around three key hospital 'pressure points' – mental health, alcohol use and frailty.

John Harrison, operational lead with MAST, says: "The team has been doing remarkable work in exceptional circumstances.

"By working with frequent attenders, both at hospital and in the community after discharge, MAST helps remove barriers that patients face to ongoing treatment – ensuring they are able to access the right support, lowering the risk of readmission.

"The team leaves no stone unturned in ensuring that people get the support they need. Every day I am inspired by members' resilience and tenacity. This nomination is testament to their efforts."

Vicki Beere, chief executive officer of Project 6, said: "I want to acknowledge the impressive impact the team has achieved in the last 12 months and express our pride at receiving recognition from the wider sector.

"This nomination will help us continue to make the case for authentic partnership working and demonstrate the vital role local voluntary sector organisations can play in providing meaningful and effective change to our communities."

MAST was nominated by Keighley MP Robbie Moore and Bradford West MP Naz Shah.

Mr Moore said: "I am delighted that MAST was shortlisted for this award, yet not surprised given the incredible work these charities do for our local community. It was an absolute pleasure to nominate them.

"Having met with members of the team on several occasions and spoken with those who have benefited from their services, I have been able to see first-hand the huge benefits MAST provides.

"This is so well deserved by all the team."

The awards ceremony is being held in Westminster on Wednesday (July 6).