The Nursing Times Patient Dignity Award

We all recognise that good healthcare is about more than simply curing or managing conditions. It is also about maximising the dignity of patients through the delivery of compassionate care. As the professionals with the most direct patient contact, nurses who have the greatest ability to protect their patients' dignity.

We would to encourage like our Dignity Champions to consider whether they themselves or a nursing professional that they know to have excelled in the field of dignity should be put forward for The Nursing Times Patient Dignity Award.

This Award recognises professional initiatives addressing aspects of care that compromise patient dignity or that ensure healthcare interventions do not unnecessarily compromise patients' privacy, independence or individuality.

Why enter?

• Each category winner (individual or team) will receive £1,000 prize money and a 2010 NT Awards Trophy;
• Each finalist will receive £100 and a certificate of recognition;
• Adding the fact that you were a winner or finalist to your CV demonstrates to potential employers the quality of your work - being recognised in this way has boosted the careers of many nurses;
• Being a winner or finalist gives you recognition among your peers and demonstrates that you are at the cutting edge of service improvement;
• The prestigious celebration offers the opportunity to celebrate your success and network with other winners and finalists;
• The organisations employing winners and finalists can demonstrate their commitment to service improvement.

In 2009, winners of Nursing Times Awards were honoured by invitations to a reception to celebrate the contribution of the nursing profession held by the Prime Minister at 10 Downing Street. Some had the opportunity to take part in a debate with Mr Brown and health minister Ann Keen, held in the cabinet room, while others had the opportunity to bring to his attention the impact of government policy on nursing practice. This demonstrates the influence gained by winning a Nursing Times Award.

Links:

• Website address for Nursing Times Awards (opens new window)