NHS Lanarkshire is celebrating after two members of staff were named as finalists in the RCN Scotland Nurse of the Year Awards 2026, recognising outstanding nursing care and support across Scotland.
Now in their fourth year, the awards celebrate excellence, compassion and dedication across the nursing profession, shining a spotlight on individuals and teams who make a real difference to patients, families and communities.
This year, NHS Lanarkshire is proudly represented by two finalists:
- Lynn Melville, Health Care Support Worker, Health Visiting Team, Airdrie Health Centre – Nursing Support Worker of the Year
- Margaret McLean, Community Staff Nurse, Airdrie Community Health Centre – People’s Choice Award
The Nursing Support Worker of the Year category recognises the vital contribution of nursing support workers who are an integral part of the nursing team. It celebrates those who demonstrate outstanding commitment to person-centred care, high-quality practice and a positive impact on the experiences of patients, families and colleagues.
The People’s Choice Award is determined through public nomination and recognises nurses and nursing support workers who are valued and appreciated by the people and communities they support, reflecting the difference they make through compassion, professionalism and dedication.
Commenting on the achievement, Trudi Marshall, Executive Nurse Director for NHS Lanarkshire, said: “I am incredibly proud to see Lynn and Margaret recognised at a national level through the RCN Scotland Nurse of the Year Awards. Their dedication, compassion and professionalism exemplify the very best of nursing and care within NHS Lanarkshire.
“Lynn’s role as a Nursing Support Worker is absolutely vital to the care we provide, and this recognition highlights the skill, commitment and impact that nursing support staff bring to our teams every single day. Margaret’s nomination for the People’s Choice Award reflects the deep trust and appreciation she has built with patients, families and colleagues alike.
“Being named as finalists in these prestigious awards is a significant achievement and a powerful testament to the difference they make every day for the people and communities they serve. They should both be extremely proud of this recognition.”
The winners of each category will be announced at the RCN Scotland Nurse of the Year Awards ceremony on 30 April 2026, taking place at the National Museum of Scotland in Edinburgh.
Everyone at NHS Lanarkshire congratulates Lynn and Margaret on this fantastic achievement and wishes them the very best of luck.
