Members were welcomed to RCN headquarters in London last week for the RCN Awards 2026, to celebrate the outstanding contributions they’ve made – from going above and beyond to supporting colleagues, to influencing positive change and strengthening the nursing profession.
This year, two South West members received commendations for their contributions to RCN forums.
Katharine Caddick, has been recognised for her work in the RCN Gastrointestinal Nursing Forum, received a commendation for the RCN forum member of the year award 2026. Katharine took a lead role in the GI nursing forum project to update the liver competencies for specialist nurses working in this area; the 2025 edition of a Competency Framework for Nurses Caring for People with Liver Disease including Liver Transplantation is in publication thanks to Katharine’s tenacity to complete this project. She gave her time and expertise freely to achieve this project outcome.
Jennifer Charlewood, has been recognised for her work in the RCN Advanced Nurse Practitioner Forum as she received a commendation for the forum committee member of the year award 2026.
Jennifer took on the chair position for the forum despite being new to the committee. She provided structure and organisation to the committee at regular meetings, strategy days and at RCN Congress where she spoke on stage to represent forum members and encouraged other committee members who may have hesitated to speak. She demonstrated leadership and empowered others to get involved. Jennifer also undertook a significant piece of work developing the levels of nursing practice post registration for the RCN.
The evening, hosted by broadcaster and writer Susie Dent, was opened by RCN President Bejoy Sebastian and RCN Chair of Council Carmel O’Boyle.
Award recipients reflect the breadth and diversity of the RCN membership, with awards presented to RCN reps, students, internationally educated nursing staff, forum members and nursing support workers.
In his opening speech, Bejoy said: “Every person in this room shares one thing in common – a commitment to excellence that lifts the whole profession.
“We are here to honour the values that define us – compassion, expertise, leadership, courage and integrity.”
Regional Director for the South West region Susan Masters said
"I am hugely proud that Katherine Caddick and Jenniffer Charlwood Wells have been recognised at the RCN awards this year. They have made significant contributions to their specialities improving patient care and supporting colleagues. They have shown exceptional commitment to the profession. I am proud to stand alongside women like Katherin and Jennifer in our profession."
With thanks to our RCN partners: LV, Quilter Financial, PG Mutual.
