Antrim neonatal nurse wins prestigious award for staff leadership and innovation

A dedicated nurse from Antrim Area Hospital’s Neonatal Unit has been formally recognised for her outstanding commitment to professional development and inspirational leadership.

Edele McGuckin, the unit’s Neonatal Clinical Educator, has received the 2025 ‘Making a Difference’ award from the Neonatal Nurses Association Northern Ireland, celebrating her ongoing impact on both staff and patient care.

Her nomination highlighted her strong clinical leadership, proactive approach to innovation, and ability to motivate and support colleagues – qualities that make her a role model within the neonatal care community.

Lead Nurse Shirley Montgomery praised Edele’s pivotal role in recent developments within the unit, particularly in the rollout of encompass, a new digital system designed to improve healthcare delivery.

“Edele has been instrumental in progressing and sustaining many areas of improvement within the neonatal unit, most recently the implementation of encompass,” said Shirley.

“Edele took a pro-active approach to this new way of working, becoming a superuser, developing Standard Operating Procedures, user labs and bespoke training sessions for staff.

“Her passion, drive and enthusiasm shines through, and her ability to empower staff, inspire, motivate and encourage is evident in her approach. She always ensures that staff take ownership, working in partnership with them to make them feel valued, listened to and very much supported.”