A huge congratulations to Natalie Janes, who has been awarded the prestigious Queen’s Nurse title by the Queen’s Nursing Institute (QNI), the UK’s oldest professional nursing organisation. The QNI is renowned for its dedication to improving nursing care for people in their homes and communities.
Founded in 1887 with a grant from Queen Victoria’s Women’s Jubilee Fund, the QNI was established as Queen Victoria’s Jubilee Institute for Nurses (QVJIN) under a Royal Charter in 1889. Initially focused on organising the training of District Nurses, the QNI played a crucial role in developing a comprehensive and highly skilled nursing service that has become a cornerstone of the National Health Service. Its model of community nursing care was emulated worldwide, setting a standard for excellence in healthcare delivery.
After a 40-year hiatus, the QNI reintroduced the Queen’s Nurse title in 2007, evolving the honour into a recognition that any nurse with at least five years of community experience can apply for. Applicants must demonstrate their expertise and commitment through evidence of their skills, supported by patient and colleague references. The Queen’s Nurse title now serves as a formal acknowledgment of a nurse’s dedication to leading and delivering outstanding care within the community.
Natalie, Deputy Head of Service for Primary and Community Care in Blaenau Gwent, expressed her excitement, stating, "I am incredibly honoured to receive the Queen’s Nurse title. This recognition reflects the dedication and passion I have for community nursing, and I am proud to be part of such a respected network of professionals committed to providing exceptional care. This award inspires me to continue making a positive difference in the lives of those I serve."
Lloyd Hambridge, Divisional Director of Primary Care and Community Services, shared the division’s pride in Natalie’s achievement: “We are thrilled to announce that Natalie Janes has been awarded the prestigious title of Community Queen’s Nurse by the Queen’s Nursing Institute! This honour recognises Natalie’s years of dedication, compassion, and unwavering commitment to providing exceptional care to the population we serve. Please join us in celebrating this remarkable achievement and in congratulating Natalie on this well-deserved recognition. Well done!”
Lucy Kings, Head of Nursing Primary Care, said, "Huge congratulations Natalie on being awarded the tile of Queen’s Nurse! This is a formal recognition that you are now part of a professional network of nurses committed to delivering and leading outstanding patient care in the community."