Formal NHS Scotland partner InnoScot Health has welcomed the opening of nominations for the Nurse of the Year Awards and its championing of leading innovation

The Royal College of Nursing (RCN) in Scotland is holding its annual awards in June next year which are designed to recognise, highlight, and celebrate the dedication and outstanding professional care of nursing staff across Scotland.

The organisers are now looking for nominations that “demonstrate the best of nursing — through innovation, excellence in practice, leadership, and commitment”.

Among the 12 categories is the ‘Inspiring Excellence — Nursing Innovation and Research Award’, recognising registered nurses or midwives working in research, service transformation or who have introduced innovative practice and “influenced change with a measurable impact on outcomes and/or experience”.

InnoScot Health has just launched a fresh innovation drive aiming to encourage and inspire nurses, midwives, and allied health professionals to come forward with fresh ideas that could help to transform NHS Scotland.

It believes the RCN Scotland Awards represent another great platform for inspiring and spearheading positive change led by vital staffing groups.

Head of Innovation at InnoScot Health, Robert Rea said: “The awards in June are an important celebration of outstanding professionals in their field who work tirelessly to improve patient outcomes and overcome daily challenges.

“While the gathering will reflect on achievements across the last year, it will also champion those looking to the future with exciting, transformative ideas which are already having a positive impact on patients, families, and colleagues.

“This is vital as we must increasingly tap into the vast experience and incredible diversity of skills which the workforce can offer for a more efficient, inclusive, and sustainable NHS.

“There remain challenges in the delivery of high-quality care, but innovative, forward-looking solutions from the workforce can overcome them, producing more with less as part of a resilient health service.”

He added: “Anyone can be a healthcare innovator with ideas, simple or complex, to improve patient care, enhance working practices, and generate a financial return which benefits all. I am in no doubt that the Nurse of the Year Awards will spotlight such inspirational new role models for the nursing profession.”

Commenting on the launch of the awards, Julie Lamberth, RCN Scotland Board Chair, said: “Nurses and nursing support workers are innovators and problem solvers. We have a passion for patient care and for our profession but too often we shy away from shouting about the contribution we make.

“This is your opportunity to shine, to share with others the difference you are making for colleagues and in the lives of those you care for.

“The evening in June will be the fitting culmination of the awards, but I know the process itself will shine a light on the best of nursing in Scotland.”

Robert continued: “We expect the Nurse of the Year Awards will be an inspiring demonstration of just what is possible with anyone able to nominate an inspiring colleague or team.

“We are ready to help innovation-minded nurses, midwives, and AHPs take their ideas to the next level, offering support which ensures they can balance professional and personal demands.”

To submit an idea or proposal to InnoScot Health, complete a short online form. Those that meet InnoScot Health’s criteria for support will receive assistance to develop their innovation, including guidance to source funding for its development, regulatory support, project management, and extensive innovation expertise.