TODAY (Tuesday, May 12) is International Nurses' Day — as well as Florence Nightingale's 200th birthday — and the Island is being asked to show its thanks.

As a day to celebrate nurses and care staff around the world, different nursing organisations on the Island are getting involved, giving gifts and paying tribute to their nurses.

Alice Webster, director of nursing at the Isle of Wight NHS Trust, had a message for the staff at St Mary's and across the Island.

The Isle of Wight NHS Trust has also been doing a cake competition — celebrating International Nurses' Day.

She said: "I just want to recognise all the amazing work our staff do, today and everyday — thank you everyone."

At Orchard House care home, in Newport, residents and staff are enjoying celebrations with presents for the nursing staff and activity packs for residents.

Emma Sutton, nurse at the home, said: “I love nursing. I’m so passionate about nursing as a career, my education was fantastic and I’ve always had a passion for elderly care provision.

"Nursing has changed significantly with multiple routes into the job role and for young people looking to start a rewarding career, nursing is the perfect opportunity.”

Gaynor Rhead, general manager at Orchard House, said: “Our nurses and staff are hard-working, dedicated, and passionate about caring for others, and that compassion and commitment has shone through even more these past few weeks — they continue to work tirelessly, and I’m proud of the professionalism and duty of care they uphold.

"All their efforts are focused on creating an enjoyable environment for our residents, so it’s nice to take this time to show our appreciation in return.”

Mountbatten is also marking the efforts of their remarkable nurses and is asking everyone to do the same.

Liz Arnold, director of nursing at Mountbatten, said: “International Nurses’ Day 2020 is going to be a year that many of us remember for obvious reasons.

“Florence Nightingale brings to mind a vision of a lady with a lamp. It's a symbol of safety and security and reassurance, evoking perhaps a symbol of what nurses represent for a fearful community of people; nurses who demonstrate courage and reassurance that someone will be there for them, and certainly Mountbatten nurses will be there for whoever needs them."

At 8.30pm, Islanders are encouraged to join a nationwide moment of gratitude by lighting a candle to nurses who have lost their lives to coronavirus and to nurses who continue to go over and above in their roles.

“I particularly ask you to remember our Mountbatten nurses,” Liz said. "I want to take this opportunity to thank each and every one of our Mountbatten nurses for their kindness, their courage, their humility and their expert knowledge.

“Florence once said for the sick it is important to have the best. I can assure you that at Mountbatten, we certainly do have the very best.”

Mountbatten nurses have also produced a video saying what makes them proud to care for patients and their families across the Isle of Wight.