We’re proud to announce that two of our community nursing leaders have been awarded the prestigious title of Queen’s Nurse, a mark of excellence in community nursing across Scotland.
Ashley Lawrence, Health Visiting Team Manager in East Lothian, and Leigh Williams, Clinical Team Lead for District Nursing and the Bladder and Bowel Service in West Lothian, were among 18 nurses celebrated at a ceremony in Edinburgh on 28 November after completing a nine-month development programme run by the Queen’s Nursing Institute Scotland (QNIS).
The Queen’s Nurse Award recognises exceptional community nurses who demonstrate leadership, innovation, and a commitment to improving health equity. Originally introduced in the late 19th century, the title was reintroduced in 2017, with around 20 nurses selected annually to undertake the Queen’s Nurse Development Programme. There are now almost 200 contemporary Queen’s Nurses working across Scotland.
This achievement highlights the outstanding contribution of our community nursing teams in Lothian. Ashley and Leigh’s success reflects their dedication to delivering high-quality care and making a real difference in the lives of the people they serve.
Pat Wynne, Nurse Director for Primary and Community Care for NHS Lothian, said:
“I’m delighted to see both Ashley and Leigh being awarded the Queen’s Nurse title. This is a significant achievement for community nurses across Lothian. It reflects their dedication to delivering outstanding care and their commitment to improving health and wellbeing in our communities. We are incredibly proud of their success and the positive impact they continue to make every day.”
Pictured above from the left is Debbie Marklow, CNM HV East Lothian, Ashley Lawrence Health Visiting Team Manager, Pat Wynne Nurse Director for Primary and Community Care, Leigh Williams, Clinical Team Lead for District Nursing and the Bladder and Bowel Service, and Leanne Grant CNM DN West Lothian. Pictured below is Leigh Williams (left) and Ashley Lawrence (right).
