A Fife nurse has been recognised as a national leader for her role in encouraging health boards to release employees to act as reservists in the armed forces.
Commander Pauline Small, associate nurse director at NHS Fife, has been named on the first list of leaders published by the Nursing Times magazine.
The list celebrates influential role models who have used their exceptional leadership skills to shape and enhance the nursing profession.
Commander Small, who is the Senior Officer, Queen Alexandra’s Royal Naval Nursing Service, Royal Naval Reserve (RNR), was formally recognised at a ceremony in London.
The Glenrothes woman is NHS Fife’s armed forces champion, which sees her promote links between the NHS and the military.
Commander Small said: “I’m both surprised and delighted to be honoured by the Nursing Times and join such eminent nurse leaders from across the UK on this inaugural list.
“My achievements as a naval reservist, influencing future policy for employer support at national level, would not have been possible without the support of NHS Fife as my employer.
“As an organisation, they have assisted me in demonstrating that reserve service should be supported and is both valuable and valued.”
A panel of 10 judges assessed more than 200 nursing and midwifery professionals from across the UK.
NHS Fife chief executive John Wilson said: “Commander Small is a role model to not only those who work within nursing and midwifery but also healthcare professionals across the board.
“Her knowledge, skills and dedication to the development and continued support of staff within NHS Fife is invaluable to the work we do.”