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Bringing together more than 500 community nurses, the day consisted of two ceremonies – an afternoon and an evening session – highlighting the exceptional work of community nurses across nursing services, education, innovation and leadership, and the vital role they play in the healthcare system.

Presentations were made by Michelle Bateman QN, Deputy Chief Nursing Officer for England, Professor John Unsworth OBE, QICN Chair, Dr Richard Claxton, Chief Executive of The National Garden Scheme, and Karen Bonner MBE, Chief Nurse, NHS England London.

Colleagues awarded the prestigious title of Queen's Nurse included:

• Miriam Collett, Lecturer in Children and Young People’s Nursing
• Donna Pearce, Lecturer in Children and Young People’s Nursing
• Danielle Field, Lecturer in Adult Nursing and Non-Medical Prescribing
• Dr Melanie Stephens, Associate Professor (Reader) in Adult Nursing
• Trudy Cowan, Head of Children and Young People’s Nursing

Steph Lawrence MBE, Chief Executive of the QICN, said: “To every Queen's Nurse, Fellow, and Awardee: you are the heart of healthcare. Your dedication to the people you serve, to innovation, and leadership transforms lives in the community every single day. Let this celebration fuel your ambition to lead the future of nursing and continue to deliver outstanding care.”

Donna Pearce, Lecturer in Children and Young People’s Nursing, said: “I am truly humbled to receive this prestigious award and would like to congratulate my inspirational colleagues and fellow queens' nurses.”

The title of Queen’s Nurse recognises nurses who have demonstrated a high level of commitment and quality in patient care and nursing practice. It brings together community nurses to develop their professional skills and deliver outstanding patient care in the community. Nurses, health visitors and midwives with five years’ experience working in the community/primary care/social care are eligible to apply.

The title is awarded by the Queen’s Institute of Community Nursing, believed to be the oldest nursing charity in the world, which was founded in 1887 with a grant of £70,000 by Queen Victoria from the Women’s Jubilee Fund.

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