Louise Atherton Recognised as Queen’s Nurse

Louise Atherton, Quality Director at Westgate Healthcare has received the prestigious Queen’s Nurse title.

She has earned the award for her 40 years of dedicated service and outstanding contributions to raising standards in adult social

Westgate Healthcare held a celebration at head office to honour Louise’s Queen’s Nurse award, with champagne and flowers. Louise reflected on the significance of the award: “This recognition means so much to me. It gives me the opportunity to represent adult social care nurses at a national level. I can also share our work and achievements with a wider audience.”

Louise highlighted her 40 years of experience, emphasising the dedication and care she consistently delivers. She will attend the formal Queen’s Nurse presentation on 29th November 2025.

At the ceremony, officials will welcome her into the national network of Queen’s Nurses. They will celebrate her alongside other nurses recognised for leadership, education, innovation, and community-based care. The event also highlights the vital role nurses play in healthcare and social care across the UK. It provides a platform to share achievements and inspire peers nationwide.

Leadership and Recognition in Adult Social CareTara Teubner, Westgate Healthcare Director, said:
“It’s an amazing achievement and we are all immensely proud of her. We are delighted to have supported Louise on her journey.”

The Queen’s Nurse title comes from the Queen’s Institute of Community Nursing (QICN), the oldest professional nursing organisation in the UK. Queen Victoria’s Women’s Jubilee Fund provided a grant in 1887 to establish the institute. It trained District Nurses and improved nursing standards outside hospitals. Today, the QICN awards the title to nurses who demonstrate leadership, skill, and excellence in community-based care, especially in adult social care nursing.