Recognising Our Exceptional Nurses on International Nurses Day 2025

International Nurses Day 2025 is a special event dedicated to celebrating and expressing thanks to our incredible nurses. Your vital contributions make a profound difference in the lives of individuals every day, touching every aspect of health and social care.

Each year on 12th May, we recognise International Nurses Day, coinciding with what would have been Florence Nightingale’s 205th birthday. This day serves to celebrate the nursing profession and raise awareness about the significant challenges that nurses face globally.

The International Council of Nurses (ICN), which organises the celebrations for this day, has announced that the theme for 2025 will be: “Caring for nurses strengthens economies.” This theme has been specifically chosen to emphasise the critical importance of a healthy and secure nursing workforce in ensuring the effective functioning of healthcare systems.

Dr. Pamela Cipriano, President of the ICN, states: “Our goal with this initiative is not only to highlight the challenges faced by nurses but also to provide a roadmap for fostering a healthier nursing workforce. By prioritising the well-being of nurses, we are ensuring that they can continue delivering the high-quality care essential for the health of our communities.”

In celebration of this day, we invite you to watch our video featuring a selection of our Oakland Care Nurses. https://youtube.com/shorts/WW5o3JzCCiM

They share what inspired them to pursue nursing, how the role has enriched both their lives and those of the residents they care for, and the motivation that drives their commitment to this noble profession.

Additionally, we highlight the experience of Abi Smith, Deputy Manager at our Beechwood Grove Care Home. She reflects on how her journey into nursing was fueled by a deep desire to care for others and make a meaningful difference in their lives. Over the years, working in social care has been incredibly rewarding—not only have I had the privilege of supporting residents through their most vulnerable moments, but I’ve also built lasting relationships that have enriched my own life in countless ways.

Having been a nurse for over 20 years, my commitment remains as strong as ever. What keeps my passion alive is the ongoing opportunity to learn, to advocate for others, and to witness the resilience and strength of the people I care for every day”.

Also meet Gabriela Mihalcioiu from Osbern Manor Care Home, who chose her nursing career for its unique opportunity to make a daily difference in people’s lives. “Nursing allows me to care for individuals during vulnerable moments while enabling my own growth and learning. It provides me with a deep sense of purpose, as I witness the positive impact my work has on health and wellbeing, often during the most pivotal moments of a person’s life.”

On this International Nurses Day, we recognise and thank our exceptional nurses. Your dedication and specialised knowledge play a crucial role in providing exceptional care to our residents. Happy International Nurses Day!