Please note, the interview date for this award is 23 March 2026.

A person-centred approach to end-of-life care reflects a commitment to fostering healthful relationships between nurses, patients, their families and those that matter most to them and our colleagues. 

This approach challenges nursing staff to prioritise what matters most to patients and their families, with a focus on holistic coordinated care, open communication, involvement of patients in decisions and supporting family members throughout.

The Palliative Care Award is open to registered nurses working in Northern Ireland.

This award recognises individuals or teams who can demonstrate a positive care experience through excellence in person-centred end of life care.

Who can be nominated?

Entries are accepted from nurses nominating themselves or nurses who are nominated by another. If the nominee is representing a team, no more than two nurses can represent the team. These nurses must be part of the direct care team.

Non-nursing colleagues such as managers, GPs, allied health professionals or medical consultants may also nominate their nursing colleagues for this award. Entrants do not need to be a member of the RCN.

How to apply?

Fill out the application form and complete a summary (up to 500 words) showing evidence of:

1. How does the nominee/s and this service/nurse deliver person-centred care?

    

2. How does the nominee/s demonstrate sensitive and thoughtful communication with the patient and those that matter most to them?

    

3. How does the nominee/s demonstrate excellence in clinical care, for example anticipatory planning.

    

4. How has the nominee/s or service been evaluated or recognised and what outcomes have been achieved for patients, those important to them and the nursing teams.

    

5. Can the nominee/s demonstrate partnership working to strengthen person centred service?

    

6. To what extent do the nominee/s or team stand out as a nurse leader/s and ambassador/s for the profession?

Please note you will not be able to save the form, it must be completed in one go.

Please read the nomination form guidance note before beginning your submission.