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International Nurses Day: Celebrating our nurses

Nurse and patient in room

Florence Nightingale laid the foundation for modern nursing and each year, on the 12th of May, we celebrate her birthday as International Nurses Day.  

The theme for 2025 is “Caring for nurses strengthens economies’, emphasising the importance of investing in nursing to improve health outcomes, the overall functioning of healthcare systems and the positive impact a healthy nursing workforce has on communities and the economy. 

Here, we speak with our workforce about nursing, the value of nurses at Hospice in the Weald, and more… 

nurses at pembury

The importance of our nurses

“They’re brave, kind, caring, clever, adaptable, deep thinkers, practical and above all indispensable,” Kerry, Head of Patient Care says about nurses. “It’s a day to recognise and acknowledge the massive contribution of nurses every day and to say ‘thank you’!”  

“Without nurses the Hospice and wider society would not be such a bright place. Nurses are the voice of the patients we care for,” adds Lisa, Nurse.  

Laura, Paramedic explains the day is about recognising the “hard work, dedication, skills, and compassion shown by my nursing colleagues.” Meanwhile, Maura, Nursing Assistant values the role and how it can “give support to patients and their loved ones when they need us most.”  

What makes a great nurse? 

“A great hospice nurse combines clinical expertise with empathy. They provide comfort, understand patient needs, and support families during challenging times. Their ability to listen and respond with compassion is invaluable,” comments Paul, Care Director. 

Paul continues: “Nurses are central to care delivery, ensuring patients receive personalised attention, managing symptoms effectively, and maintaining dignity at end-of-life. Their presence offers reassurance to both patients and families, making them vital to the functioning of healthcare systems and the wellbeing of communities.” 

“Nurses are the workhorses of healthcare, involved in everything from holding hands to complex clinical decision-making,” Laura adds. “Everyone has needed a nurse at some point… they are the beating heart of patient care.” 

happy nurses at pembury

A challenging and rewarding role

Being a nurse at the Hospice is a unique and rewarding experience. Lisa finds value in being “able to have the time to support the family as well as the patient.” Kerry finds fulfilment in knowing that “every day I make a difference to someone, whether through my words or deeds but I have mattered to them.” 

Maura echoes this sentiment, emphasizing the importance of providing support to patients and their loved ones when they need us most” and the satisfaction “of knowing I have made a difference.”  

“Nurses are awesome, the nurses here are exceptional, they regularly go above what is required to make our patients feel safe and comfortable,” Laura shares. 

Let’s celebrate nursing! 

Today we celebrate the work of all our nursing colleagues, recognising that every day, through words and deeds, our nurses make a tangible difference for our patients and their loved ones during some of their most vulnerable moments.   

Thank you for your unwavering commitment and compassion. Your work makes a profound difference in the lives of many and especially here in the Hospice. By investing and supporting our nurses, we can strengthen economies and improve health outcomes, ensuring a brighter future for all.  

Thank you, nurses, for everything you do. Happy International Nurses Day! 

Nurse with patient

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