Published: 15 May, 2026
Recognition, personal reflections and stories were at the heart of this year’s International Nurses’ Day, celebrating the invaluable contributions of our teams.
Andrea Handley, director of nursing and allied health professionals, said the day is particularly important as nurses, dental nurses and allied health professionals form a significant part of the workforce.
“It’s a chance to recognise the compassion, professionalism and dedication of colleagues who play a vital role in delivering safe, effective and person-centred care,” she said.
Staff were invited to acknowledge colleagues by sharing examples of how they make a positive difference to their experience at work. Comments highlighted kindness, encouragement, guidance, mentoring and the everyday actions that support teams and patients.
Due to the high standard of nominations submitted, the leadership team selected three winners at random to receive a voucher in support of the dedication they show to others.
Andrea added: “Every submission demonstrated the meaningful impact these professions have on patients, teams and services. I would like to thank everyone who took the time to share comments about colleagues and celebrate the difference they make.”
To help raise awareness of the breadth of nursing and allied health professional roles across gtd healthcare, two colleagues also gave an insight into their day-to-day work.
Sharon Collins, venous thromboembolism lead, spoke about her role in improving detection, raising awareness and driving change in practice through specialist advice and guidance.
Victoria Arnold, clinical services manager, described what a typical day looks like within the Integrated Urgent Care Service at Preston and Chorley and how she supports teams to deliver high-quality care within a fast-paced environment.
The Primary Care Forum also marked the occasion by bringing colleagues together for clinical training, shared learning and networking.
Katie Schofield, clinical services manager and Primary Care Forum lead, said it felt fitting to use the forum to recognise the contribution of nursing and allied health professionals while also supporting development and wellbeing.
“Alongside the clinical training and shared learning, what stood out most was the sense of connection within the room,” she said.
“It gave colleagues time to reflect and learn from one another, while reinforcing the value of creating spaces for teams to come together.”
If you would like to find out more, please email gtd.corporateaffairs@nhs.net.
