Nurses Are the Heart of Our Care System - South Ayrshire HSCP Celebrates Excellence on International Nurses Day 2025

South Ayrshire Health and Social Care Partnership (HSCP) are celebrating International Nurses Day 2025 by paying tribute to the exceptional dedication, professionalism, and compassion of nursing teams across South Ayrshire.

The theme for this year's International Nurses Day, "Caring for nurses strengthens economies," highlighting the critical role that a healthy, supported nursing workforce plays in strengthening economies, improving health systems, and achieving better outcomes for our communities.

Speaking on the occasion, Linda Semple, Chair of the Integration Joint Board said: "Our nurses are at the very heart of care delivery across South Ayrshire. Their unwavering commitment ensures that vital services are available around the clock, bringing comfort, healing, and hope to countless individuals and families. Today, and every day, we recognise and celebrate their invaluable contribution."

Tim Eltringham, Director of South Ayrshire HSCP added: "Reflecting on this year's theme, we acknowledge the profound impact nurses make both economically and socially. Their compassion, resilience, and expertise form the backbone of our healthcare system, and we are deeply grateful for all that they do."

Across Children and Young People's Services, nursing teams — working closely with Midwifery colleagues — have maintained Gold Accreditation through UNICEF's Baby Friendly Initiative, demonstrating an ongoing commitment to promoting and supporting infant feeding and parent-infant relationships.

In addition, Natalie Bowie, Interim Clinical Nurse Manager for the Central Locality, has been awarded the prestigious Isabella Kimmett Compassionate Care Award is awarded recognising her outstanding leadership and unwavering dedication to supporting local families.

Special recognition was also extended to NHS Ayrshire & Arran's Family Nurse Partnership team, who continue to deliver compassionate, person-centred care to young first-time mothers, empowering them to achieve better futures for themselves and their children.

Concluding the celebrations, Rosemary Robertson, Associate Nurse Director added: "Today, we offer our heartfelt thanks to every member of our nursing teams for their resilience, leadership, and care. South Ayrshire HSCP remains firmly committed to the wellbeing of our nursing workforce through our strategic focus on health, wellbeing, and professional development. The impact of our nurses is profound — their dedication continues to inspire and strengthen our communities."