Charlotte Collings, who works at the Princess Alexandra Hospital in Harlow, has been presented with the Royal College of Nursing’s Award of Merit due to her groundbreaking work supporting internationally educated nursing professionals.
The Award of Merit, presented at the RCN Congress in Newport, is the highest honour bestowed on RCN members for service to the college.
Charlotte is currently vice chair of the RCN Eastern Board and also chairs the region’s working group focused on learning opportunities and support for internationally educated nursing staff.
As a recruitment and retention nurse, Charlotte has outstanding knowledge of the journey of nursing staff who come to work in the UK.
Her RCN Congress 2022 debate in Glasgow, recognising the experiences of internationally educated nursing professionals, led to a series of RCN webinars and will support the shaping of the international nursing academies.
More recently, she advocated and was successful in obtaining pay based on experience for international nurses at Princess Alexandra Hospital, as well as supporting direct recruitment into specialist senior roles.
Charlotte is passionate about empowering members to find their voice. She has promoted the visibility of international nurses who have achieved career development and has encouraged and motivated staff.
She has been instrumental in helping to demystify the Objective Structured Clinical Examination (OSCE) process, which tests the clinical skills and performance of those coming to work in the UK.
Teresa Budrey, RCN Eastern Regional Director, said: “Charlotte’s passion and expert knowledge of the journey taken by internationally educated nursing professionals has enabled her to share her insight to the benefit of all internationally educated nursing staff across the UK.
“This merit award recognises the far-reaching impact Charlotte has had helping internationally educated nursing staff build their confidence, navigate processes and feel supported.”
Charlotte said: “I was left speechless upon learning I was receiving this award. I am passionate to ensure everyone feels valued and nobody is left behind. I feel I was just simply doing my job.
“I am so proud and honoured to receive the Award of Merit and cannot thank my colleagues enough for their continued belief in my vision and supporting me every step of the way.”
