Celebrating International Nurses Day 2026

“I never expected to become a nurse, but the support and belief of colleagues early in my career set me on a path that’s taken me through community care, palliative work, and now specialist practice — all grounded in the shared values that unite nurses around the world. Moments like helping an extremely premature baby finally go home after nearly a year in hospital or supporting families through the most complex and emotional journeys, have stayed with me and shaped the nurse I’ve become. I’ve been inspired throughout by dedicated nurses who model compassion, calm, and unwavering commitment, and their influence continues to guide my practice. To anyone considering nursing, and to nurses everywhere this International Nurses’ Day, I’d say: you have to love it — but the joy, growth, and impact you can have make every challenge worthwhile.”

“Being part of a global nursing profession means belonging to a community that shares the same values of compassion and advocacy for our patients, no matter where we work. It reminds me that the support we give families locally as a health visitor connects to a much bigger impact on children’s health and wellbeing worldwide.

“One moment that has stayed with me is supporting a vulnerable family during my training, where building trust over time made a real difference to the child’s safety and development. It reinforced how important continuity of care and strong relationships are in health visiting and any form of children's nursing, as parents and families are entrusting you with their children. Never underestimate the difference you make. Whether it’s a small interaction or long-term support, your care has a lasting impact on individuals and families.”

“I have been a qualified nurse for 44 years. During that time, I have seen huge changes in the nurses’ role, but an unchanging fundamental is the role we play alongside our patients - supporting them at times of illness, vulnerability, fear, possibly anger, frustration and loss of independence (to varying degrees).  We are privileged to be able to gain trust and support the patient physically, emotionally, socially and spiritually from their time of need until they leave our care.  As nurses despite our role developments, we must never lose sight of the fundamentals of nursing whether you are a band 2 or band 9 plus and every band between.”  

“Nursing, and being a nurse, are central to my values and view on life. Supporting, helping, caring about people and making their lives better all remain my values in whatever roles I have held. Being a nurse, and the opportunities it has afforded me, has been a wonderful privilege.”

“Nursing, a privilege to support our community patients, exemplifying trust, compassion, and lifelong learning.

"On International Nurses Day, we celebrate the true privileges of being a nurse across the world.”