We know the value of nurses, and we demonstrate our knowledge and skills to our patients, their families, and the public every day. Now, with a new global campaign launched in collaboration with the World Health Organization and International Council of Nurses, we have a larger voice uniting us and validating the work that we do.

On February 27, 2018, Nursing Now kicked-off with activities across the globe, including a passionate speech by HRH Duchess of Cambridge, Kate Middleton, who, at the London launch, was announced as Patron of the Nursing Now campaign. The Campaign Board, along with its partners, will work over the next three years to improve healthcare by enabling nurses to do what we do best – promoting health and preventing disease. Based on the findings of the Triple Impact of Nursing report (improve health, empower women, strengthen local economies), the campaign will run as a program of the Burdett Trust for Nursing.
 
The five main programs of the campaign are:

1. Universal Health Coverage – ensuring quality health care for everyone
2. Evidence of impact – building up evidence of the contributions of our profession
3. Leadership and development – supporting nurses as leaders in policy and practice
4. Sustainable Development Goals – ensuring health, gender equality, and economic growth
5. Sharing effective practice – disseminating and improving access to collections of effective practice.

 This short excerpt from Nursing Now’s vision gives great insight into the goals of the campaign:

“The changing needs of the 21st Century mean nurses have an even greater role to play in the future. New and innovative types of services are needed – more community and home-based, more holistic and people-centred, with increased focus on prevention and making better use of technology. These are all areas where nurses can play a leading role. However, maximising nurses’ contributions will require that they are properly deployed, valued and included in policy and decision-making.”

Nurses – we are a key component in solving today’s healthcare challenges. Let’s get involved! Here’s how:

• Pledge your support and take action.
• Show your support via social media.
• Develop a regional or national Nursing Now group.
• Stay up-to-date on Nursing Now news.

Nurses, it’s time to lead the charge and make a difference on a global scale. Together we can tackle the healthcare challenges that exist today. This is a big step for our profession. I encourage everyone to learn more about Nursing Now and get involved!