Guidance for nominators for CNS Awards

• Focus on specific examples rather than general praise
• Explain why this individual stands out
• Describe the difference they have made, not just what they do
• Small improvements and everyday leadership are just as valuable as large projects

When nominating a colleague, please use the prompts below to structure your response. You do not need to answer every question, but strong nominations will provide specific examples, clear impact, and show how the nominee goes above and beyond their role. We encourage nominators to consider:

• What the individual did
• How they did it
• The impact on patients, colleagues or service

1. Clinical Practice Award

Please describe how the nominee:

• Demonstrates expert clinical knowledge and judgement in cancer care
  (e.g. managing complex cases, supporting difficult decisions)
• Provides compassionate, person‑centered care
  (e.g. advocacy for patients or carers, addressing emotional needs)
• Takes a holistic approach across the cancer pathway
  (e.g. supporting patients beyond treatment, coordinating care)
• Improves the experience or outcomes for patients
  (e.g. feedback, examples of reduced distress, improved understanding or safety)

Strong nominations will include: real examples of patient impact, not job descriptions.

2. Leadership & Service Development Award

Please describe how the nominee:

• Shows leadership in their role, regardless of band or job title
  (e.g. leading by example, influencing others)
• Has initiated or driven improvements to services or pathways
  (e.g. solving problems, improving processes)
• Supports and develops colleagues
  (e.g. creating a positive team culture, supporting wellbeing)
• Has made a lasting difference to how the service runs
  (e.g. improved flow, communication, efficiency or morale)

Strong nominations will include: evidence of initiative and sustainable change.

3. Education & Workforce Development Award

Please describe how the nominee:

• Shares their knowledge or expertise with others
  (e.g. teaching, training sessions, informal learning)
• Mentors, coaches or supports colleagues or students
• Encourages professional growth and confidence in others
• Contributes to building a skilled and confident nursing workforce

Strong nominations will include: examples of learning supported and its impact on practice.

4. Research & Innovation Award

Please describe how the nominee:

• Uses research or evidence to improve practice
  (e.g. guidelines, audits, best practice)
• Has introduced an innovation or new way of working
  (large or small changes are welcome)
• Has led or contributed to a quality improvement initiative
• Demonstrates measurable or clear benefits
  (e.g. safer care, better patient experience, improved efficiency)

Strong nominations will include: evidence of practical change and improvement.