Tuesday 12 May 2026
Today (Tuesday 12 May) marks International Nurses’ Day (IND).
IND is celebrated globally on May 12th every year. This year’s theme, ‘Our Nurses. Our Future. Empowered Nurses Save Lives.’ recognises the need for nurses to be fully empowered to make the greatest impact on people’s health.
At the National Institute for Health and Care Research (NIHR) Manchester Clinical Research Facility (CRF), our research nurses contribute daily to the progression of cutting-edge clinical research across our six world-class facilities.
In honour of IND 2026, Manchester CRF colleagues discuss the importance of this day and why they are proud of their profession.
Sujata Blane, Nurse Manager, NIHR Manchester CRF at North Manchester General Hospital
“International Nurses’ Day to me is a celebration of the acts we may forget, but that patients and families remember for a lifetime — the quiet moments of care and support that truly make a difference.
“As a nurse, by providing care compassion and treatment, I support healing. As a Research Nurse Manager, I support building a healthier tomorrow backed by evidence.”
Abinaya Rajendran, Senior Clinical Research Nurse (Respiratory), NIHR Manchester CRF at Wythenshawe Hospital
“International Nurses’ Day is an opportunity to recognise the essential role nurses play in shaping the future of healthcare. This year’s theme, “Our Nurses. Our Future. Empowered Nurses Save Lives,” strongly reflects my experience as a research nurse, where knowledge, autonomy, and collaboration directly impact patient outcomes.
I am proud to contribute to advancing treatments and developing new therapies that improve patient outcomes, increase life expectancy, and enhance quality of life. Clinical research nurses play a vital role in translating innovation into practice, ensuring patients have access to cutting-edge care.
“In addition to being a celebration, International Nurses’ Day reminds me that when nurses are empowered, not only do we improve individual patient outcomes but also drive innovation and progress across the healthcare system for future generations.”
Caitlin Corrie, Senior Clinical Research Nurse, NIHR Manchester CRF at Royal Manchester Children’s Hospital
“I am proud to be a nurse working in clinical research, because I can make a positive impact on a child’s hospital experience day to day, and I am helping to improve the treatment options available for children with long-term and complex medical conditions in the future.”
Esther Ebere, Clinical Research Nurse, NIHR Manchester CRF at Manchester Royal Infirmary
“International Nurses’ Day is a day of reflection, pride and renewed purpose. It represents the dedication, compassion and resilience required to care for people when they are vulnerable. IND reminds nurses of their value and impact. It reinforces that investing in nurses is investing in the future of healthcare.
“The theme “Our Nurses, Our Future: Empowered Nurses Save Lives”, speaks directly to the heart of the profession. Empowerment in nursing means having the knowledge, support and confidence to advocate for patients, make critical decisions and continuously grow in practice. When nurses are empowered, patient outcomes improve, healthcare systems strengthen and lives are saved every single day.
“Being a nurse is a privilege. It is the opportunity to make a difference whether through a comforting word, life-saving intervention or simply being present. To be a nurse is to be part of something profoundly meaningful and that is a source of lasting pride.”
Eliza Cole, Staff Nurse, NIHR Manchester CRF at The Christie
“I started on the NIHR Manchester CRF at The Christie as a newly qualified nurse and discovered a passion for research. I’m now moving into a Research Nurse role in Phase 1 trials.
Research nursing has opened up fantastic opportunities, including attending the NIHR Conference and training as a Professional Nurse Advocate.”
Louise Harrison, Operational Lead for the NIHR Manchester CRF at Salford Royal
“On International Nurses’ Day, I am proud to be part of cutting-edge research which allows more people to participate in early phase clinical trials.
Often, these trials are the only option for patients to access groundbreaking medicine, and it is a privilege to be part of their research journey.”
