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RCN awards

RCN Representatives of the Year

Rewarding accredited RCN reps who have gone the extra mile.

Who can be nominated

This award is for accredited RCN representatives (learning representatives, safety representatives and stewards) who have made a difference in their workplace and shown outstanding commitment to the RCN and its members.

They may have:

  • improved health and safety in the workplace
  • pioneered a new learning initiative
  • resolved workplace issues or disputes
  • demonstrated achievements in representation and consultation.

Members of the Professional Nursing Committee, Trade Union Committee, and RCN Council are not eligible for nomination.


Who should nominate

You should think about nominating someone for an award if you:

  • have been personally supported and represented by an exceptional RCN representative
  • are a manager or employer of a representative who has made a real difference in your workplace
  • have witnessed exceptional service and support by an RCN representative.
Please note that representatives are not able to nominate themselves.

When to submit your nomination

Nominations have now closed for the RCN Representatives of the Year Awards 2023.

The prize

The prize for each award winner is £500, while commendees receive £250.


Anne Rouse

Winning the award has increased my confidence and made me realise that I am providing a good service to members, even when cases don't go as I would like. It has made me feel that the work activists carry out is very much recognised and important to the organisation.

Anne Rouse Steward of the Year 2015
Ray Gerrard

I felt privileged and appreciated as a representative, which I had not always felt previously. It is with this confidence that I have now applied to train as an RCN steward as well as continuing my work as a safety representative.

Ray Gerrard Safety Representative of the Year 2013
Amanda Eliff

This award has given me the confidence to approach senior staff, as well as the connections to work with different nursing teams within my trust. It was a great honour and keeping it quiet, when I could not stop smiling, was difficult.

Amanda Eliff Learning Representative of the Year 2013