Highlighting, promoting and celebrating the innovation and professionalism of Scotland’s nursing staff, the Awards shine a spotlight on the best of nursing in Scotland. They also provide the nation with the opportunity to find out more about the amazing care that nursing staff provide 24 hours a day, 7 days a week to the people of Scotland.
Nominations for 12 of the award categories are open to individuals and teams, from Shetland to the Borders, NHS hospitals to care homes, and cover the diversity of nursing roles across Scotland’s health and care services.
The categories are:
- Adult Nursing
- Care Home Nursing
- Children & Midwifery Nursing
- Clinical Leadership
- 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 in Scotland and each category will be judged by an expert panel.
There will also be two additional awards announced at our awards ceremony in April 2026.
The Chief Nursing Officer for Scotland Award for Excellence will recognise a significant contribution to the development of nursing as a profession that is valued by society, with nominations coming from nursing leaders across Scotland.
The prestigious RCN Scotland Nurse of the Year 2026 will be selected from the registered nurse winners from the other award categories.
Commenting on the launch of the awards, Julie Lamberth, RCN Scotland Board Chair, said:
"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 Director, said:
"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."
Nominations will be accepted over the coming months with the winners announced at a glittering awards ceremony taking place in the Grand Gallery in the National Museum of Scotland in April 2026.
The deadline for entries is 31 October 2025 and you do not need to be an RCN member to enter.
