Caring with Courage series changing the perception of nursing and highlighting nurses’ multifaceted leadership roles

The International Council of Nurses (ICN) says the launch of the second series of Caring with Courage, a series produced for them by BBC Storyworks Commercial Productions, together with the first series, captures the reality of nursing today. The two series showcase the impact of nurses around the world as they work to deliver practical solutions to major health challenges and reduce the burden of ill health.

Caring with Courage is a series presented by ICN and produced for them by BBC Storyworks Commercial Productions, that tells the stories of the world’s extraordinary nurses and shows the multifaceted expertise that defines modern-day nursing. The series aims to debunk inaccurate understandings and stereotypes as part of ICN’s ongoing work to improve the public’s understanding of nursing and how it is defined and to elevate the standing of the profession and to recognise their role as leaders.

This new second series shines a light on everyday nursing work across the globe. It shows nurses leading community and primary health care (PHC) initiatives; using innovations in technology and data for treatment and prevention; and bringing high-quality, patient-centred and culturally-appropriate care to all who need it.

ICN Chief Executive Officer Howard Catton said:

“Nursing is consistently voted the most trusted profession by the public, but many people don’t fully know what nurses do or the true extent of their skills and impact.

‘This second Caring with Courage series, coupled with the first, provides a window into the world of nurses. These exceptional films provide yet more proof that nurses are not only hands-on caregivers: they are highly educated leaders who deliver expert care at the most pivotal moments in people’s lives, providing solutions and improving health outcomes and health systems all around the world. The series captures nurses’ compassion and humanity and highlights their vital role in delivering effective, accessible, and affordable care and addressing the world’s most complex health issues.

‘We have clear evidence that nursing boosts the health of entire populations and strengthens societies and economies. However, we are still seeing governments fail to value and invest in nursing and many nurses continue to face discrimination and gendered inequalities.

‘Health is our most valuable asset, and nurses are key professionals who are entrusted to protect it, day in, day out. It is time for the world to recognize nurses for the experts they truly are and properly value their dedication, skills and commitment, which are shaping healthier futures for us all.”

The set of new films also includes short vignettes, “Day in the Life of Nurses”, whose individual stories reinforce the dedication of our nurses and the variety of their work.

The new Caring with Courage films will be showcased at next month’s ICN Congress in Helsinki, Finland.