On 8 May, we will welcome our newest cohort of FNF Scholars as they embark on their life-changing journey over the next 18 months. Our new scholars will join us from across the UK and globally to undertake their own unique experience as an FNF scholar.
Here we share the experience of Lucy Common, Consultant Nurse in Immunology at the Northern Care Alliance, who recently secured an FNF Scholarship AND has a new part-time position in an exciting new nursing role at NICE. Her impact and influence within NICE will include championing nursing research.
“I am delighted to have secured a FNF leadership Scholarship and I am excited to meet more aspiring nurse leaders and work on our communication, impact, and influencing skills as part of the Scholarship, including training delivered by RADA. The Scholarship will also include delivering a Quality Improvement project to improve the transition of adolescent patients to adult services in Immunology at Salford Care Organisation (Northern Care Alliance). My local research mentor at Salford, Professor Helen Hurst, a FNF Scholar alumna, was fundamental in supporting me with the competitive application process.
I was lucky enough to undertake a research scholarship with FNF in 2008, which was fundamental in establishing my role as a nurse specialist in Immunology and Allergy and completing my MSc in Allergy at Southampton University (note – these scholarships were different to current FNF scholarships and did not include the current leadership modules, they focused on research work). I would not have been able to complete the research modules of the MSc without the FNF scholarship. I am also proud to be an FNF Alumni Champion, as part of this network, I know how valuable connections are with inspirational nursing colleagues locally and nationally. Ring-fencing time to focus on research and quality improvement projects is vital to improving the care we give our patients.”
"I am also so thrilled to be starting an exciting new role at NICE. I will be the first nurse in this groundbreaking role and will do fulfilling and impactful work to support nurses and their patients. I have been a qualified nurse for 26 years, graduating from King's College with a BSc (Hons) in Nursing Studies in 1999. Early in my career, I gained experience in Oncology, ICU and Emergency nursing before settling and getting well and truly hooked in the wonderful world of Immunology and Allergy nursing."
Lucy Common, Consultant Nurse in Immunology at the Northern Care Alliance
FNF has two core partners who support our Scholarships; Hart Ridge Consulting Ltd and RADA Business:
“We are delighted to be working in partnership with FNF in the delivery of the core leadership programme for Scholars. The impact of the scholarships is undeniable, offering life-changing opportunities which ultimately benefit patients and service users. We are very proud to support an organisation so committed to nurturing future talent!”
Lucy Wiltshire, Director, Hart Ridge Consulting Ltd
“We deeply value our partnership with the Florence Nightingale Foundation. The RADA Business team is proud to support and empower nurses and midwives – helping them grow their impact and influence, and to lead with clarity, confidence and authenticity. Working with FNF Scholars is particularly special – their passion, integrity and commitment to driving positive change is inspiring.
Over 12 years we have worked with thousands of nurses and midwives through the FNF partnership, including around 500 Scholars. Time and again, participants tell us that our programmes have been pivotal in their careers. We’ve been delighted to witness so many go on to shape the future of the NHS from within. FNF’s work has never been more vital, and we’re very proud to be part of it. We look forward to continuing this powerful and purposeful partnership.”
Helen Slater, Managing Director, RADA Business
