Celebrating Nurse of the Year as NHS turns 70

Chief Nursing Officer, Professor Charlotte McArdle, last night praised nurses for their valued contribution to the health service of Northern Ireland.

She was attending the Northern Ireland Nurse of the Year 2018 Awards ceremony in the Culloden Hotel, Belfast hosted by the Royal College of Nursing (RCN).

Professor McArdle paid tribute to all the nurses within the Health and Social Care (HSC) system. She said: “This year the NHS celebrates its 70th year, and I want to acknowledge and thanks all those nurses and midwifes who through their hard work and dedication over the last 70 years have made a difference to lives of people here. 

“Nursing remains the backbone of health and social care delivery and public confidence in our profession remains high, in the 10,000 More Voices Initiative, 90% indicated their experience with nursing and midwifery care was strongly positive/positive.  And tonight reminds us all that across all age groups, nurses are champions of human experience and are crucial in leading improvements in the well-being of population.”

Charlotte McArdle praised the work of the profession and acknowledged the unique contribution of all nurses in the HSC system. She said: “I want to publicly thank each and every nurse and midwife for their dedication and commitment to making a difference to the people of Northern Ireland, because without their continued professionalism, determination and resilience our health service would simply not be able to function.”

Concluding, Professor McArdle congratulated all the finalists, she said: “I congratulate you all on your achievements, I was very impressed by all the nurses and healthcare assistants nominated for the awards last night. The demonstrable benefits for care in all of the categories are both innovative and encouraging.”

Notes to editors: 

1. The Royal College of Nursing (RCN) Northern Ireland Nurse of the Year Awards is now in its 22nd Year. The award ceremony was hosted by Jo Scott.

2. The purpose of the annual awards is to celebrate nursing and the contribution that nurses in Northern Ireland make to patient and client care.

3. There are fifteen award categories.

4. A full list of award winners is available from Lisa Holden, Media Officer, RCN, 07789691505.

5. Media queries about this press release can be made to DOH Press Office on 028 9052 0567, or out of hours contact the Duty Press Officer via pager number 07623 974383  and your call will be returned. Follow us on twitter @healthdpt

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