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 Agnes recognised for her remarkable contribution to nursing and leadership and are delighted to see her 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 took place on 5 June 2025.