What can I say? It’s been an incredible two years serving as the North-West Lead Nurse for Independent Health and Social Care (IHSC). As we prepare to close out another year, I can’t help but reflect on the journey so far - the challenges, the achievements, and the incredible people I’ve had the privilege to meet along the way.
The dedication of Registered Nurses and Healthcare Support Workers in the Independent Health and Social Care sector is nothing short of inspiring. Your contributions ensure that care is delivered with professionalism, compassion and innovation, even during the most challenging times. Over the past two years, I’ve been amazed by your commitment to making a difference in the lives of those you serve.
My highlights of 2024
From January through December, my calendar has been brimming with opportunities to engage, learn, and celebrate the exceptional work happening across our region.
January: The year began with a series of meetings with the Adult Social Care Nursing Advisory Council (ASCNAC) regional chairs, where we delved into the evolving needs of our sector. I also connected with the Independent Health Providers Safeguarding Forum, broadening my understanding of safeguarding in our settings.
February: Collaborating with Northern cluster lead nurses (North West, North East, and Yorkshire & Humber), we worked on our strategy for how we can best support our members working in IHSC. Teamwork and shared vision have been crucial in meeting these many and varied demands and we will continue to work together to provide you with the support you need.
March: Face-to-face visits brought me to Abbey Health Care and Exemplar nursing homes. It was heartwarming to see the exceptional care being delivered on the ground.
April: A significant milestone this year was hosting our first in-person IHSC event in Greater Manchester. Bringing people together to share ideas and celebrate the sector’s achievements was a highlight.
May: A month of celebrating Nurses Day and shining a light on hospices like Dr Kershaw’s, Marie Curie, and Claire House. These visits were a poignant reminder of the compassionate care provided in such settings.
June: Care Home Week was marked with visits to organisations including Bayswood Care Group and Exemplar. I also attended the Lancashire and South Cumbria Primary Care Nurse/Allied Health Professionals conference and visited Trinity House Hospice in Blackpool - a month brimming with collaboration and inspiration
August: Hospices Queenscourt and Ramsay Healthcare Oaklands Hospital welcomed me, and it was wonderful to witness their ongoing commitment to excellence.
September: Attending the inaugural Social Care Nursing Advisory Councils (SCNACs) Celebration Event in London was a privilege. I also met aspiring nurses at the University of Manchester, a reminder of the bright future in prospect for our profession.
October: We hosted our first virtual IHSC event—a milestone in adapting to new ways of connecting. Visiting Nuffield Chester Hospital and celebrating Black History Month with our members made the month extra special.
November: It was a proud moment for the RCN Independent Health and Social Care Team as we won an award at this year’s Women Achieving Greatness in Social Care Awards. Members of our team attended the ceremony in London and were presented with the award by the iconic Baroness Floella Benjamin.
December: The year isn’t over yet, and I’m still making plans to visit services, meet members, and set the stage for 2025.
As I plan for the year ahead, my commitment remains steadfast: to support, collaborate, and celebrate the invaluable work happening across our sector. If you’d like me to visit your service or explore partnership opportunities, please don’t hesitate to reach out.
We are also busy planning our next in-person event for our North West IHSC members, which is scheduled to take place in April. We’ll be publishing more details in the new year so watch this space!
To each and every one of you, thank you. Your tireless efforts make a real difference in the lives of those you care for. As we move into the festive season, I encourage you to take a moment to rest and cherish time with loved ones. For those who may find this time challenging, please remember that your membership includes counselling support. Don’t hesitate to reach out for help.
To all, I send my warmest wishes for a holiday season filled with peace, love, and kindness. May 2025 bring joy, resilience, and continued success to you all.
Here’s to the incredible work we do together in Independent Health and Social Care. Thank you for letting me be part of this journey.
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