International Nurses’ Day: Salford student named 'Apprentice of the Year' by Health Education England

The event takes place on May 12th, the anniversary of Florence Nightingale’s birth. The theme of this year’s celebrations is “#BESTOFNURSING”. 

To celebrate, The University of Salford are recognising second year nursing associate Deborah Taylor, who has recently been awarded “Trainee Nursing Associate of the Year” by Health Education England. 

Deborah is part of the pilot cohort for Primary Care, Trainee Nursing Associates at the University of Salford. She was nominated for the award for her hard work and successes during practice.  

“I feel extremely proud to have been nominated in the category and blown away that I won. It is so nice for the news of my award to spread and be seen as a positive. 

“Primary Care is often overlooked, despite being a vital part of healthcare. It is certainly not without its challenges; we support patients following a hospital stay, keeping their conditions and ailments managed, avoiding and reducing the need to be seen in hospital,” said Deborah.  

Deborah began the course online, during the coronavirus pandemic. She has continued to work and study throughout and hopes to advocate a role in primary care for future nursing associates. 

Clinical Educator, Roisin Ni Chuinn, said: “We as a team are extremely proud of Deborah. She is an amazing Trainee Nursing Associate and a wonderful asset to her organisation. We know that Deborah has a very bright future ahead and we look forward to watching her develop. 

“Deborah has continued to work and study throughout COVID despite adversity, and we couldn’t be more proud of her achievements to date. Deborah is learning to celebrate her successes and we are so happy to support her on this journey.”  

To find out more information about the University of Salford’s Primary Care programme, please visit: https://www.salford.ac.uk/courses/degree-apprenticeship/nursing-associate-nursing-associate-higher-apprenticeship