Registered Nurses working with adults operate in a dynamic clinical environment which is constantly changing not least to embrace innovations in healthcare technology and advancements in research and best practice. Providing care to adults who need clinical nursing care, practicing in a variety of care settings.

About the award: This award aims to recognise an exceptional Registered Adult Nurse who is being recognised for their innovative and creative approach to the care of adults.

WHO CAN BE NOMINATED?

A Registered Nurse (Adult) who is:

• Working at any level within a clinical role or managing clinical services within Wales
• Practising in any sector for example: Independent Health and Social Care Sector, Third Sector, NHS or Local Authority
• Diversity in nominees is encouraged to reflect the workforce in Wales

CRITERIA 

A nominee should be able to show that:

1. Their work follows national health and social care policy and strategy.
2. Through strong leadership, they have contributed to a new and original development that has made a real difference to people receiving care.
3. They use evidence to support their work, or they are helping to build an evidence base for the project they are nominated for.
4. They can show that the service or innovation they are nominated for has a safe and effective governance framework.
5. Their work has clearly benefited patients, clients, families and colleagues.
6. They have made a positive impact on safe and effective care, demonstrated through service evaluation, patient feedback or other methods.
7. Shares their project or work with colleagues to help them learn and shows leadership that aligns with the NMC Code of Practice.
8. They show passion and commitment for the nursing profession, consistently goes the extra mile and maintains a positive, “can‑do” attitude.

PLEASE NOTE THAT NOMINATIONS WILL BE SCORED USING EACH OF THE ABOVE CRITERIA POINTS, INDIVIDUALLY.

                                        

What makes a winning entry? - top tips to make you nomination stand out from the crowd!

Please read the nomination guidance note before beginning your submission. We have created some examples of excellent nominations to give you an understanding of the detail needed to make your nomination shine. You can also watch our guidance video 'Writing the perfect nomination for RCN Wales Nurse of the Year' for some top tips for making sure your nomination wows the judging panel.

Please remember to follow these key points:

• Tell us why you are nominating this person. A minimum of 300 words will be requested to explain your nomination, up to a 500-word limit for your submission. The more detailed you are the better so make full use of the word count given to you!
• Start with their success: What’s the headline? What are you proud of? Start with the attention-grabbing success to hook the judges immediately 
• When writing your 500 words, please refer to the award criteria for the category you are nominating for and hit each point mentioned by providing solid evidence. Each point will be scored individually and that way, you’ll increase your chances of your nomination being shortlisted!
• Please tell us specifically how your nominee has gone over and above the requirements of their role, and/or how they have made significant contributions to their field of work.
• Lastly but not least, check your spelling and grammar! Professionalism and care are equally as important in your nominations! Spell out any acronyms to be as clear to the judges as possible, don’t make any assumptions that they know what you’re talking about!

We also encourage patient nominations; we want to hear about how your experience of excellent nursing care has touched your lives. This could be yourself, a family member or someone who is making a difference in your local community!  Contact RCN Wales if you would like help in choosing a category to nominate. NurseoftheYearAwards@rcn.org.uk

Diversity in nominees is encouraged to reflect the workforce in Wales across all areas of nursing; Independent Health and Social Care Sector, Third Sector, NHS, or Local Authority.