RCN Scotland Nurse of the Year Awards 2027 – nominations now open

Now entering their fifth year, Scotland's most prestigious nursing awards celebrate the extraordinary people and teams who are transforming care, driving innovation and making a lasting difference to lives across the country every single day.

From busy hospital wards and community settings to care homes, universities and specialist services, the awards shine a spotlight on the outstanding professionalism, compassion and expertise that define Scotland's nursing workforce. They also offer the public a unique opportunity to learn more about the remarkable care nursing staff provide around the clock, 365 days a year.

With an expanded programme for 2027, including our new Community and Primary Care Nursing Award, nominations are now open across 13 award categories, recognising the breadth and diversity of nursing roles throughout Scotland, from Shetland to the Borders.

The categories are:

• Adult Nursing
• Care Home Nursing
• Children & Midwifery Nursing
• Clinical Leadership
• Community Nursing
• Inspiring Excellence – Nursing Innovation and Research Award
• Learning Disability Nursing
• Learning in Practice
• Mental Health Nursing
• Nursing Student of the Year
• Nursing Support Worker of the Year
• Nursing Team of the Year
• People’s Choice

The awards are open to all nursing staff working in Scotland, with winners selected by our expert judging panels.

Alongside the open award categories, two prestigious honours will also be presented at the awards ceremony in April 2027.

The Chief Nursing Officer for Scotland Award for Excellence will recognise an individual who has made a significant contribution to advancing nursing as a profession and increasing its value to society.

The ultimate accolade, RCN Scotland Nurse of the Year 2027, will be awarded to one of the registered nurse winners from the category awards in recognition of exceptional achievement and impact.

Launching this year's awards, Julie Ross, Chair of the RCN Scotland Board, said:

"As the highlight of Scotland's nursing calendar, our awards offer a valuable chance to honour and celebrate the nursing profession in Scotland and all that we achieve.

"Nurses and nursing support workers are natural innovators and problem-solvers, driven by a deep commitment to patient care and to our profession. Yet, we often hesitate to speak up about the impact we make. This is nursing's moment to step forward, share the difference you're making for the people you care for every day.

"The awards evening in April will be a memorable celebration, but the entire journey will help spotlight the nursing excellence we have here in Scotland."

Colin Poolman, RCN Scotland Executive Director, added:

"This is our annual moment to truly celebrate the incredible dedication, skill and impact of nursing staff across Scotland. I urge every member of nursing staff to help us champion the awards, spread the word and encourage nominations from every corner of health and care. Let's make sure the brilliance of our profession is seen, heard and honoured."

Winners will be revealed at our spectacular awards ceremony in the Grand Gallery of the National Museum of Scotland in April 2027.

Whether you're recognising an inspiring colleague, a pioneering team or your own achievements, now is the time to showcase the exceptional work taking place across Scotland's health and care services.

Nominations close on 20 November 2026.

And remember, the nominee does not need to be an RCN member to enter.

Nominate today and help celebrate the very best of nursing in Scotland.