Birthday Congratulations from RCN President Maura Buchanan
Here's to you as we celebrate 25 years of children and young people's nursing in the RCN.
More than any other area of practice, you have been outstanding in the way you have championed children's nursing. For too long children were treated as "wee people". Through your determination and perseverance it is now accepted practice that children are fundamentally different from adults and require services that are separate.
I first went to RCN Congress in 1986 and, even in my early days as an activist, I was well impressed by the obvious passion of the (then) Society of Paediatric Nursing in promoting their agenda.
Throughout these 25 years, many individual nurses have demonstrated great leadership in this field. Some have been duly honoured with fellowships and other awards. But it is my belief, as happens all too often in nursing, that we have missed opportunities to really celebrate the work and commitment of other individuals as well as the work of the forums.
Help us identify unsung heroes
Many CYP nurses, together with staff advisers, have had their expertise valued by external bodies such as the departments of health and royal colleges through invitations to work on projects that help shape policies - Dame Liz Fradd is a perfect example. But it is only right that we, as the RCN, also acknowledge the dedication, leadership and expertise within this field.
As Chair of the RCN Honours and Awards Panel, I urge you to identify and submit names of those leaders in your field who you believe deserve Fellowships, Awards of Merit or even Queens Honours so that we can gain recognition for valuable work in CYP nursing.
Congratulations on your 25 years of outstanding dedication and commitment to your work. I am pleased to continue supporting your endeavours.