We are delighted to share that Annie Clothier, Vascular Clinical Nurse Specialist at Aneurin Bevan University Health Board, has received the RCN Wales Nurse of the Year 2025 award from the Royal College of Nursing.
A special congratulations also to Runner Ups:
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Amanda Strange, Assistant Practitioner, for the Health Care Support Worker Award
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Lisa Payne, Ward Manager, for Registered Nurse - Mental Health Award.
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Tracy Bale. Consultant Nurse, for Specialist Nursing Award
The Nurse of the Year 2025 award recognises Annie’s expertise, compassionate care and leadership in vascular nursing. She has supported improvements to vascular services across the Health Board, including during the transition of acute services to Cardiff and Vale University Health Board, while continuing to focus on providing person-centred care.
Vascular patients often face complex and long-term health needs. Annie meets every one of them with empathy, equity, and highly skilled, individualised care. She has also secured Welsh Government funding to lead the first nurse-led research project into wound care at ABUHB.
In addition to her role within the Health Board, Annie is Chair of the national Legs Matter group and contributes to the All-Party Parliamentary Group on Vascular and Venous Disease.
Annie said: “People don’t always realise the scale of what we do. We’re a small community in vascular care across the UK but we work incredibly hard to make sure our patients are truly seen and properly supported. Recognition matters for the resources and understanding our patients desperately need.
"I’ll be in parliament in a couple of weeks again raising awareness with MPs. I’m proud of the work we’re doing, and even prouder to speak up for the people who rely on us every day."
Helen Whyley, Executive Director of RCN Wales said: “Annie is more than an exceptional nurse. She is a national leader, mentor and tireless advocate for her patients. Her commitment to excellence, innovation and compassionate care represents the very best of our profession.
“Annie’s passion for advancing vascular nursing includes combining her clinical expertise with humanity to improve outcomes for patients. She truly embodies the heart, skill and spirit of nursing.”