12th May 2025
The Southern Health and Social Care Trust is proud to announce that two of its esteemed nursing colleagues have been named finalists in the prestigious RCN NI Nurse of the Year Awards 2025.
John McAteer, Practice Education Facilitator, has been shortlisted in the ‘Learning in Practice Award’ category, while Agnes Dee, Head of Service for Mental Health Intellectual Disability and Dementia Inpatients, is a finalist in the ‘Team Manager Award’.
John McAteer
John has been recognised for his outstanding work supporting newly qualified nurses (NQNs) in the Trust’s Emergency Departments. He played a pivotal role in developing a bespoke transition programme that offers pastoral support, targeted training and professional development. Working in close collaboration with the ED Education team, Clinical Sisters, Ward Sisters and Lead Nurses, John ensured that new staff felt supported, confident and equipped to grow in their roles.
Patrick Johnston, Interim Lead Nurse for Nurse and Midwifery Education and Workforce Development, who nominated John, said:
“His dedication, empathy and humour have made a lasting impact on the Trust’s workforce and the quality of care provided.”
Agnes Dee
Agnes has been acknowledged for her exceptional leadership within the Bluestone mental health inpatient unit. With a career spanning over two decades, she has led the transformation of Bluestone into a psychologically safe and supportive workplace, despite the challenges of high acuity and demand. Her focus on transparency, reflective practice, and team empowerment has fostered a culture of mutual trust and continuous improvement.
Joe Walker, Assistant Director Mental Health and Intellectual Disability Inpatients, who nominated Agnes, said:
“Under her leadership, Bluestone became the first mental health inpatient unit on the island of Ireland to receive the Royal QNWA accreditation in 2024, with ongoing efforts towards further service accreditation.”
Dawn Ferguson, Interim Executive Director Nursing, Midwifery, Allied Health Professionals, Functional Support Services and Infection Prevention and Control, said:
“We are delighted to see John and Agnes recognised for their remarkable contributions to nursing and leadership and are delighted to see them recognised at a regional level.
“These nominations serve as a testament to the exceptional talent within the Trust and its ongoing drive to lead the way in nursing excellence and patient-centred care.”
The RCN Northern Ireland Nurse of the Year Awards will take place on 5 June 2025.