Remembering Julie
13 October 2021
Remembering Julie Bolus and celebrating nursing – a blog by Ruth May, Chief Nursing Officer for England.
It was in September of this year when I heard that the Good Governance Institute had launched a new award, in memory of the late Julie Bolus, to recognise and celebrate nursing excellence.
Julie Bolus was a highly experienced and well-respected nurse, and NHS executive director and NHS non-executive director, who very sadly passed away earlier this year in April. To continue the legacy of Julie’s incredible passion and energy for nursing, GGI working with Julie’s family, launched the Julie Bolus rising star nursing award.
I was delighted to see such a positive way of remembering Julie, someone who did so much for the nursing profession. This award celebrates the commitment and dedication of #teamCNO nurses working across the NHS. It recognises their professionalism, leadership and expertise that ensures the best possible outcomes and care for patients and families. An award that I am sure Julie would have been incredibly proud of.
Nominations have been open since September and I know there have been many, which I’m delighted but not surprised by given the number of dedicated nurses going above and beyond every day. I want to make sure all of those that do, that exhibit the same energy and passion and care that Julie did, get the chance to be considered, so I encourage everyone to make their nominations.
I will be part of a panel of judges, alongside members of the Bolus family, NHS colleagues of Julie and other senior nursing staff across the NHS, with the difficult decision of choosing a winner.
The winner will be invited to a celebratory event and awarded a cash prize of £1000. There will also be some prizes for runners up including shadowing opportunities. I will be personally attending the award ceremony in November to award the winning UK nurse - judged to be a rising star – showing the passion, care for patients and focus on the best outcomes for citizens that Julie did.
To nominate a #teamCNO nurse you know – or yourself – for the award, please complete the online form.
Nominations will close on 15 October 2021.
