Search on to find Northern Ireland’s top nurse!

Organised by the RCN, this is the nineteenth year of the awards which are designed to recognise and reward excellence in the nursing profession. This year’s ceremony will be held on May 21 at the Culloden Hotel, Holywood.

Janice Smyth, Director of the RCN in Northern Ireland said: “The aim of the RCN Northern Ireland Nurse of the Year Awards is to highlight the contribution that nurses make to patient care and the developments and innovations they are leading to improve it.

“Over the past 19 years we have seen outstanding examples of nurses developing services for patients that make a real difference to improving the health of the local community.

“Nurses work extremely hard to provide a high level of care to patients, often within pressurised environments, and are playing a leading role in developing our health services. At a time when the provision of health care is undergoing continuous change, nurses are working hard to provide safe and effective care. More than ever, this is a time to show our appreciation and to recognise and reward excellence in nursing.

“We have a number of categories this year including a new award aimed at the independent sector for registered managers. Sponsored by Four Seasons Health Care, this award is open to all registered nursing home managers working in the independent sector.

“In addition, for the second year, we have an award for learning in practice, sponsored by the Open University and an award for innovation in mental health sponsored by Niamh.

“I would encourage all health care staff to look at the categories and consider nominating a colleague. Nurses deserve to be recognised for the invaluable contribution they make to our health and social care service.”

Application forms for all categories are available from the RCN by telephoning 028 90 384 600 or can be downloaded online at www.rcn.org.uk/northernireland. The closing date for entries is February 20.