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Nursing support workers are essential and valued members of the nursing team. They work in all health and care settings, in hospitals, care homes, communities and the independent sector, under the guidance and supervision of registered nurses. Nursing support workers job titles and roles vary depending on the area in which they are working, but they share the same values.

Open to all nursing support workers including nursing assistants, health care support workers, carers and senior carers who work as part of the nursing team. This award aims to recognise those who have made an outstanding contribution to the care of patients or residents in their nursing support worker role. 

A nursing support worker who is delegated work by a registered nurse who is working in health and social care.

The nominee should clearly demonstrate:

• a commitment to person-centred care, innovation and delivering high quality services that make a difference to the people receiving care
• the benefits their work has had for patients, clients, families and colleagues
• how their work contributes to the delivery of local and national policy and strategy within health and social care.

If you have any questions or queries regarding the awards, please get in touch by emailing scotlandnurseawards@rcn.org.uk

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Health Care Support Worker, Loch Leven Health Centre, NHS Tayside

Catherine, or Irene to those who know her, is described as an exceptional health care support worker, leading with compassion, empathy, and commitment. She is known amongst colleagues for her genuine, person-centered care, and her ability to go above and beyond for the people she cares for. Having battled cancer multiple times, Irene's relatability and understanding of health struggles have made her a trusted resource. She is widely respected by the medical team, with her contributions extending beyond patient care, as she ensures the team has the necessary resources to function effectively. Irene is an expert in areas like venipuncture, phlebotomy, and long-term condition reviews, and has played a key role in teaching her colleagues these skills. After 40 years of service, her colleagues are sure the legacy of care and compassion she will leave behind will continue to inspire others in the community.

Mental Health Support Worker, NHS Highland Forensic Service

Since joining the Highland Forensic Service in May 2023 as the first Support Worker, Chelsey has made a profound impact on the lives of forensic inpatients and community patients through her enthusiasm, dedication, and creativity. Chelsey co-facilitates a weekly social group where patients from different wards can connect, helping to reduce isolation. She initiated a guided relaxation session, which led to the creation of a dedicated relaxation group, praised for helping patients manage stress and find inner calm. She also offers tailored 1:1 activity, supporting patients with practical life skills to foster independence, confidence, and help patients re-engage with the community, encouraging transitions to more independent living. Chelsey is praised for her trustworthiness, consistency, and joyful approach. Chelsey’s vital contributions are celebrated for helping some of society’s most vulnerable and stigmatised individuals feel supported, connected, and optimistic about recovery.

Associate Practitioner, Royal Hospital for Children, NHS Greater Glasgow and Clyde

Julie is described as the backbone of her service, supporting both patients and colleagues, particularly in times of change, and providing consistent care. For the past 12 years, she has specialised in gastrostomy, stoma, and rectal irrigation management, offering comprehensive care including wound reviews, device changes, and training patients and carers. Advancing her clinical skills and knowledge, she plays a critical role in the rectal irrigation programme, helping children with constipation issues avoid surgical interventions like stoma formation, greatly improving their quality of life. Julie is respected both nationally and locally for her clinical expertise, compassion, and dedication to improving patient outcomes. As Julie plans to retire this year, the legacy she will leave behind includes being featured in an upcoming gastrostomy training video and involvement in an audit to transition patients to adult services.

Care Assistant
Braemount Nursing Care Home, Paisley, Advinia Health Care

Angela is a highly dedicated and hardworking care support worker with 28 years of experience. Known for her kindness, enthusiasm and commitment, Angela consistently advocates for the individual needs of the residents in her care. She is well-liked and respected by both residents and peers for her compassionate approach. Angela demonstrates adaptability, efficiency, and thoroughness in her work, completing tasks with excellence and on schedule. She is currently leading a successful project called ‘Strength and Balance’ aimed at improving residents' health in care homes, showing remarkable dedication by working extra hours and adjusting her schedule. Despite challenges, Angela's unwavering commitment has ensured the project's continuation and positive outcomes, earning praise from residents and families. Additionally, Angela is recognised for her efforts in fundraising and enhancing residents' quality of life through various initiatives, including personalised Christmas decorations and encouragement for the team. Overall, Angela is highly recommended for her inspirational leadership, drive, and active involvement in her work.

Nursing Assistant, Lochview Hospital, NHS Forth Valley

Described by colleagues as a dedicated and professional nursing support worker, for 20 years Janet has worked in the learning disability service of Loch View Hospital, and her senior charge nurse says she is an integral part of the service – leading the way with care and compassion. Always advocating for those under her care, Janet strives to ensure they are recognised as people and not medical or physical conditions. She has played an important part in developing a bespoke approach to care for an individual with autism who requires seclusion due to challenging behaviour. She has developed and incorporated daily contact for him, a long process due to the individual's diagnosis and his challenges to engage with others. Janet is also described as a supportive presence on site, not only for her patients but also for family carers and her colleagues. As well as her support for direct patient care, Janet has played an integral role in maintaining a safe environment in line with local and national policy. Janet is a champion of the control book, completing environmental audits, risk assessments and infection control audits such as hand hygiene. She consistently supports and encourages staff to take an active role in these important tasks to maintain safety for both patients, visitors and her colleagues.