Epsom, Sutton and St Helier hospitals are asking people to vote for staff who have made a difference to their lives.

The new NHS award scheme, NHS Heroes, allows people to say thank you to someone who helped them through difficult times.

Any member of staff from doctors to hospital cleaners is eligible.

The winners will be presented with an NHS Heroes certificate signed by David Nicholson, chief executive of the NHS.

Trust chief executive, Matthew Hopkins, said: "I consider myself lucky – I go to work every day knowing that I am surrounded by hundreds of NHS heroes.

"Our fantastic team at Epsom, St Helier and Sutton hospitals regularly go above and beyond the call of duty.

“So I’m really pleased that our NHS heroes are getting a chance to be recognised for what they do day in, day out. 

"However, it’s not always the heroic life savers that make the difference. Sometimes the small things add up. 

“Your NHS hero could be anyone who works or volunteers in our hospitals, from those who keep the wards clean, who make you a cup of tea or hold your hand when you need it, to those who save lives every day – they are all heroes.

“The ‘NHS Heroes’ awards are a great opportunity to thank these people for their hard work and dedication.

"And I know that for every NHS hero nominated there will be hundreds more who deserve the accolade. Show them your appreciation by nominating your NHS Hero.”

Patients and their family, carers and friends can nominate their hero by via the NHS Heroes website nhsheroes.com.

Nominations close lunchtime on Friday 21 September 2012.