Today, Friday 12 May, is International Nurses Day and I would like to begin by expressing my thanks and appreciation to all nurses working across our region for the dedication and professionalism you demonstrate.
As Chief Nurse for NHS South Yorkshire, I am proud of the wide range of nursing professionals we have in our patch. You all show positivity and courage across the various practices and service areas we have in South Yorkshire.
Nurses ongoing professionalism and hard work has never been more vital or more valued by health and care colleagues and the patients you look after.
The dedication that you show patients and the sacrifices you make are astounding; I can truly say I’ve never felt more proud to be part of our nursing community. Your work, commitment and dedication, from birth, right through to end of life care is vital. I also know how hard nurses worked during the recent pandemic, a time of unprecedented demand, not just physically, but emotionally too. Just being there for patients, their carers and their families during difficult times is something that families will never forget.
International Nurses Day is celebrated around the world every 12 May, the anniversary of Florence Nightingale’s birth, and aims to acknowledge the invaluable contributions nurses make to the health of people around the world.
It is a hugely important day in our calendar. Given the recent challenges the NHS has faced, the event is more important than ever, and it gives us a chance to reflect and celebrate our wonderful nursing colleagues. On a personal note, I want to emphasise what truly amazing nurses we have in South Yorkshire - we’re lucky to have all of you whether that’s in a hospital, general practice or in the community.
I also want to show my appreciation to everyone who is a member of the nursing community regardless of where you work. Many of you work outside of direct care in areas such as research, education, policy and commissioning – all of you make a difference everyday so thank you.
Cathy Winfield, Chief Nurse
