OUH Celebrates Nursing and Midwifery Workforce at a Trustwide Event

More than 300 staff members and partner organisations came together in person and virtually to celebrate the professions of nursing and midwifery across Oxford University Hospitals (OUH).

The celebration event provided a valuable opportunity to honour the Trust’s nurses and midwives, and to reflect on OUH's ongoing journey to deliver the best possible care for patients, their families, and the wider population.

This year's celebration centred on the theme "Our nurses and midwives, our future", aligning with International Day of the Midwife (5 May) and International Nurses Day (12 May). The programme highlighted the essential role these professions play in shaping the future of healthcare, both locally and globally.

The day opened with a vibrant flag parade, showcasing flags from more than thirty countries represented within the OUH workforce. This was followed by a series of presentations, keynote speeches, discussion panels, and opportunities for networking. Attendees also explored information stands and enjoyed all‑day refreshments.

Simon Crowther, Acting Chief Executive Officer at OUH, said:
"Our nurses and midwives are the backbone of our organisation. Their skill, empathy, and resilience make a profound difference every single day. The celebration is just a small reflection of the gratitude we feel for the work they do. A special thank you to all who contributed to the success of the event."

Yvonne Christley, Chief Nursing Officer at OUH, said:
"Thank you to everyone involved in the celebration event. It was a real pleasure to meet colleagues from across our nursing and midwifery workforce and to hear about their expertise, experiences, and reflections. Their contribution to our Trust and to the NHS is invaluable. Thank you to all our nurses and midwives for the difference they make every day to patients, families, and colleagues."

Thanks to generous support from Oxford Hospitals Charity, refreshments were available throughout the day at the John Radcliffe Hospital, as well as at designated locations across the Nuffield Orthopaedic Centre, the Churchill Hospital, and the Horton General Hospital. 

The event, held on Friday 8 May, underscored OUH’s commitment to recognising, supporting, and developing its nursing and midwifery workforce, celebrating their achievements while looking ahead to the future of compassionate, high‑quality care.