Community Practice Educator shortlisted for national Nursing Times Award | News

A Community Practice Educator from Mid Yorkshire Teaching NHS Trust has been shortlisted for a prestigious national award in recognition of her outstanding contribution to workforce education and development.

Nichola Lakin has been shortlisted in the Practice Educator of the Year category at the Nursing Times Workforce Awards 2026, which celebrates excellence in workforce development and recognise individuals and teams making a significant impact across health and care.

Nichola, who works within Adult Community Services, has been recognised for her dedication to supporting the development, education and learning of the community workforce. Through her role, she helps staff build the knowledge, skills and confidence needed to deliver safe, high-quality care for patients across the Trust's communities.

During the time in the role, Nichola has made a significant impact on learning and development opportunities for staff by developed digital learning resources to support diabetes care, she has led specialist diabetes education for care homes supporting people with learning disabilities and transformed wound management training through the creation of the interactive learning such as games.

Andrea Parkin, Divisional Director of Nursing for Adult Community Services at the Trust, said:

"We are incredibly proud to see Nichola recognised with a shortlist place for such a prestigious award. Her passion for education and unwavering commitment to supporting colleagues' learning and development have made a lasting impact across our community services.

"Nichola is highly regarded not only for the innovative training programmes she develops, but also for her supportive and approachable teaching style. She plays a vital role in helping newly qualified nurses transition into community practice and supports experienced nurses to build their confidence and skills when managing increasingly complex patient needs.

"This recognition is thoroughly deserved and reflects the positive difference Nicky makes every day to both her colleagues and the patients we care for."

Colleagues describe Nichola as passionate, enthusiastic and kind, bringing energy and encouragement to every learning opportunity she delivers.

Commenting on being shortlisted, Nichola said:

 "I am truly honoured to have been nominated and shortlisted for this award. It is a privilege to be recognised for something I am so passionate about, and I am proud to work alongside such dedicated and supportive teams across our community services.”

The winners of the Nursing Times Workforce Awards 2026 will be announced during the event on Thursday 29 October at the JW Marriott Grosvenor House Hotel in London.