Founded in 1887 with a generous £70,000 grant by Queen Victoria from the Women’s Jubilee Fund, the Queen’s Nursing Institute (QNI) stands as the UK’s oldest nursing organisation. A Royal Charter named it the ‘Queen Victoria Jubilee Institute for Nurses’. It outlined the objectives: ‘training, support, maintenance of women to act as nurses for the sick poor’. Initially, it was established to coordinate the training of District Nurses. The QNI played a pivotal role in shaping a highly skilled healthcare service. These early nurses were trained and supported by the QNI. They brought vital care into the homes of those who needed it most. Often, they worked in challenging circumstances. Their dedication established a legacy of community-based nursing that continues to influence practice today.
From 1889 to 1968, the QNI bestowed the title upon individuals who successfully completed its training for District Nurses. However, in 1968, they discontinued the qualification, and education for nurses transitioned to the NHS and higher education. Despite this shift, the QNI continued to champion the role of community nurses. It focused on supporting and developing their practice. This occurred within a rapidly changing healthcare landscape. The institute remains a vital resource for nurses working in community settings. It ensures that the legacy of compassionate, skilled care extends to future generations of healthcare professionals.
Today, aspiring Queen’s Nurses’ (QNs) undergo a different process. Specifically, they present evidence of experience and skills supported by references from patients and colleagues. Therefore, the QN isn’t merely a recognition of past service or qualification; it signifies membership in a professional network of nurses committed to delivering and leading outstanding community care. Furthermore, QN’s are distinguished by their dedication to continual learning, leadership and delivering excellence in patient care. Indeed, their commitment extends to enhancing community care standards, marked by a robust emphasis on learning and leadership that epitomises best practices.
Registered Deputy Nurse Manager and John’s Campaign Ambassador, Maggie Candy, alongside Cavendish Homecare Nurse Emily Mullan, have been granted the prestigious title of ‘Queen’s Nurse’.
The Queen’s Nursing Institute, a charitable organisation, strives to care for individuals in their residences across England, Wales and Northern Island.
At Cavendish Homecare, we dedicate ourselves to the continual professional development and recognition of our nurses. We do this for the amazing work they do within people’s homes.
Grace Laudy, a dynamic individual driven by a strong passion for making a positive impact on society and excelling in her professional life. Grace is actively involved in her local leisure centre, championing inclusivity in sports for individuals with disabilities. Grace’s compassion extends beyond community involvement to her personal life, where she provides support to a family member living with Parkinson’s disease.
Having transitioned into a pivotal role as a recruitment and compliance assistant at Cavendish Homecare, Grace excels at guiding nurses and carers through the onboarding process and expertly handling the meticulous management of compliance. Grace’s multifaceted contributions showcase her as an exceptional professional with a genuine commitment to making a positive impact on all clients, nurses, and carers.