A doctor who built up from scratch services for people with diabetes, and a social worker who pioneered care for children with behavioural problems, were among those honoured at the health and social care awards last night.

The 17 awards, organised by the Department of Health and supported by the Guardian, are seen as the Oscars of the caring professions. They are intended to mark outstanding innovations by individuals and organisations.

John Reid, the health secretary, presenting the prizes in the City of London, praised the "skill, ingenuity, commitment and passion" of the winners and finalists. He said: "Over two and a half million people rely on the dedication and expertise of health and social care professionals every day. These awards represent the pinnacle of that effort.

The awards are open to individuals and groups working in the public, voluntary and independent health and social care sectors in England. The judges looked for action and results that produce higher standards and better experiences for patients and users.

Five individual accolades were given to outstanding achievers. Arun Baksi, consultant physician at St Mary's hospital in the Isle of Wight, took the doctor's award for his 25-year commitment to im proving care for diabetes patients. He recognised that there was no formal support for people diagnosed with the condition on the island.

Sue Allan, a service manager at Southampton social services, took the outstanding achiever prize in the social worker category for setting up a service supporting children with severe mental health needs.

A joint initiative which treats older people with minor injuries in Sheffield in their own homes won the frontline award for emergency care.

The winners in each category receive £15,000 towards the development of services.