TWO Wirral nurses have been recognised with a prestigious royal honour.

Julia Bryant, divisional quality lead and Fiona Campbell, Professional Development Lead for Wirral Community NHS Foundation Trust’s 0-19 Health and Wellbeing Service have been given the prestigious title of Queen’s Nurse by community nursing charity The Queen’s Nursing Institute.

The title is not an award for past service, but indicates a commitment to high standards of patient care, learning and leadership.

Julia Bryant said: "Not only is nursing in my blood, it's in my heart and a part of who I am.

"Nursing was my dream job from a very early age.

"My enthusiasm and passion for making a difference to people's lives has given me the drive and motivation to get me where I am today.

"I am absolutely delighted to receive the title of Queen’s Nurse as this means that my passion for improving the quality of care offered to children and young people and my contribution to improving services within our children’s division has been recognised.”

Fiona Campbell, Professional Development Lead, said: "The Queen's Nurse Award to me means a commitment to lifelong learning, as health goals continually change and opportunities to develop and adapt services are endless.

"Having a positive attitude to changes and continually thinking about alternate ways to practice and move our service forward is a strength I adhere to." 

Dr Crystal Oldman CBE, chief executive of the QNI said: "I would like to congratulate Julia and Fiona and welcome them as a Queen's Nurse.

"Queen's Nurses serve as leaders and role models in community nursing, delivering high quality health care across the country.

"The application and assessment process to become a Queen's Nurse is rigorous and requires clear commitment to improving care for patients, their families and carers.

"We look forward to working with Julia and Fiona and all other new Queen’s Nurses who have received the title this year."