Celebrating Excellence: CNWL Nursing Conference 2025

Our CNWL Nursing Conference 2025 brought together nursing professionals from across the organisation to explore the latest innovations in nursing practice and career development.

The event was a true celebration of the nursing profession, filled with engaging sessions, presentations, and exciting announcements.

View pictures below and read about the highlights:

A warm welcome from our new Chief Nurse 

The day kicked off with a welcoming speech from Amanda Pithouse, Chief Nurse. She shared how nice it was to see everyone together to celebrate and introduced the day’s agenda and Nursing Strategy. 

Getting the nursing basics right

The first session, "Getting the Nursing Basics Right," featured insightful presentations from Beatrice Place on oral hygiene care in an older adult mental health setting, and the innovative Milton Keynes District Nursing Project focusing on remote working and engaging patients in care planning. The emphasis was on improving the fundamental aspects of care to enhance patient outcomes.

Nursing Innovations: Leading change in care delivery

Session two brought forward cutting-edge ideas in nursing practice, with presentations from:

• Urgent Care (Rapid Response) – A focus on keeping people well at home​​
• Integrated Working in Health Visiting and Perinatal care
• New Model of Care for Young Offenders: The Oasis Secure School project
• Learning from Seclusion – A Quality Improvement (QI) project at St Charles, Nile Ward

Developing a workforce for the future

Percy Watungwa, Divisional Deputy Director of Nursing, introduced the Chief Nurse Fellows Alumni, Margaret Meade and Richard Mandiveyi, who shared their journey of professional growth and the opportunities for future nurses within the organisation.

The day then focused on the diverse career paths with a line-up of speakers including Nazeema, Healthcare Support Worker, Patricia, Nursing Associate, Ella, Apprenticeship nurse, Melanie, Specialist nurse, and Lesley, Advanced Clinical Practitioners. The session gave attendees an inspiring look at the wide range of nursing roles and the potential for career growth at CNWL.

The role of the Trust-wide Specialist Nurse

Attendees were given a closer look at the essential work carried out by nurses in Infection Prevention and Control, Safeguarding, Clinical Safety. Samara Hammond, pre-recorded a video to share the management of deteriorating patients.

A celebration of diversity: International Nurses at CNWL

A heart-warming session was held later in the day, where Guy Powell, Deputy Director of Nursing for Jameson Division, introduced CNWL’s international nurses. Speakers including Richard Camisic, Felba Francis, and Sumej Jose shared their unique experiences and the contributions they bring to the team, fostering a culture of inclusivity.

We premiered a new CNWL Nursing Family video featuring staff:

The path forward: The Future of CNWL Nursing

The afternoon session, "Our Nursing Strategy – Where Next?" brought together Amanda Pithouse, James Smith, Kim Cox, and William Sakala, Divisional Directors of Nursing, to discuss the future direction of CNWL’s nursing strategy. The conversation revolved around continuing to build on the principles of holistic care, workforce development, and pride in who nurses are, ensuring the next generation of nursing leaders is prepared for the challenges ahead.

Awards Ceremony: Celebrating Excellence

A highlight of the day was the much-anticipated Nursing Conference Excellence Awards 2025. This year’s awards ceremony, hosted by Claire Murdoch, Chief Executive and Amanda Pithouse, Chief Nurse, recognised outstanding contributions nominated by fellow colleagues across various categories, including: