Scotland’s most prestigious nursing awards are returning with nominations now open for the RCN Scotland Nurse of the Year Awards 2027.
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 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.
With an expanded programme for 2027, including the new Community Nursing Award, nominations are now open across 13 award categories, recognising the breadth and diversity of nursing roles throughout Scotland, from Shetland to the Borders.
The categories are:
- Adult Nursing
- Care Home Nursing
- Children & Midwifery Nursing
- Clinical Leadership
- Community Nursing
- 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 working in Scotland, with winners selected by the RCN’s expert judging panels.
Alongside the open award categories, two prestigious honours will also be presented at the awards ceremony in April 2027.
The Chief Nursing Officer for Scotland Award for Excellence will recognise an individual who has made a significant contribution to advancing nursing as a profession and increasing its value to society.
The ultimate accolade, RCN Scotland Nurse of the Year 2027, will be awarded to one of the registered nurse winners from the category awards in recognition of exceptional achievement and impact.
Sharon Murray, Acute Nurse Director said: “These awards provide an opportunity to recognise the exceptional commitment, professionalism and compassion demonstrated by our nursing staff across NHS Lanarkshire every day.
“I am continually impressed by the quality of care and support provided to patients, families and colleagues, often in challenging circumstances.
“I encourage you to nominate individuals who have made a particular difference through their clinical expertise, leadership, innovation or dedication to delivering high-quality care.
“Taking the time to recognise and celebrate these achievements is important and helps acknowledge the positive impact our nursing workforce has on the people and communities we serve.”
The nominee does not need to be an RCN member to enter and nominations close on 20 November 2026.
Nominate today at www.rcn.org.uk/ScotAwards and help celebrate the very best of nursing in Scotland.
