Celebrating the Power of Partnership: Reflections on the FNP Scotland Celebration Event 2026
On Monday 16th March 2026, colleagues from across Scotland came together in Glasgow to celebrate the impact, learning and collective ambition of the Family Nurse Partnership (FNP) programme. Hosted by the Scottish Government, the FNP Scotland Celebration Event brought together Family Nurses, Supervisors, Data Managers, wider health and community partners and policy colleagues for a day that was reflective, inspiring and energising.
From the outset, the atmosphere was one of shared pride and connection. The event was an opportunity not only to showcase innovative practice and quality improvement work from across NHS Boards, but also to pause and recognise the dedication, compassion and expertise that underpin FNP delivery every day.
A Powerful Opening: Leadership, Rights and Purpose
We were honoured to hear an opening address from Professor Aisha Holloway, Chief Nursing Officer for Scotland, who acknowledged the vital contribution of FNP nurses and supervisors and reaffirmed national commitment to early years and prevention. Her message set a clear tone: FNP matters, and the work being done across Scotland is making a difference to young parents.
This was followed by a thought‑provoking spotlight session from Juliet Harris, Director of Together (Scottish Alliance for Children’s Rights). Juliet powerfully positioned Family Nurses as “children’s rights defenders”, helping to make babies’ rights real in everyday practice. Her reflections on UNCRC incorporation resonated strongly with attendees and reinforced how FNP values align with a rights‑based, child‑centred approach.
Innovation, Learning and Quality Improvement in Action
Throughout the day, teams from across Scotland shared an impressive range of quality improvement projects, highlighting how FNP continues to be innovative, evidence‑based and responsive to local and national priorities. Presentations showcased work to reduce second pregnancies, improve early engagement before 16+6 weeks gestation, strengthen breastfeeding support through initiatives such as Breast Buddies, and better support young dads through co‑designed approaches.
Breakout sessions on fidelity, data and co‑design created space for meaningful discussion, reflection and peer learning. Attendees particularly valued the opportunity to connect with colleagues from other Boards, hear different approaches, and share challenges and solutions in a supportive environment.
The event reinforced a shared commitment to the future of FNP in Scotland, one grounded in whole‑family support, early help, co‑design and continued innovation.
What Did People Tell Us?
Feedback from the event was overwhelmingly positive:
- 89% of respondents said they were satisfied overall
- 96% found the day uplifting
- 93% felt the content was relevant to their role
- 96% said they would take away learning and insights to inform their practice.
Networking, positivity and the strong emphasis on quality improvement were consistently highlighted as key strengths. When asked to describe the event in one word, responses such as inspiring, informative, dedicated and quality‑focused stood out.
Thank You
Events like this do not happen without commitment and collaboration. A heartfelt thank you goes to:
- All speakers and presenters who generously shared their work and learning
- Family Nurses, Supervisors and Data Managers whose innovation and reflective practice continue to strengthen the programme
- Partners and collaborators, including Together Scotland
- Everyone involved in planning, facilitating and hosting the day.
Most importantly, we recognise the young parents and families whose voices, experiences and strengths sit at the heart of everything FNP does.
The FNP Celebration Event was a powerful reminder of what can be achieved when dedicated professionals come together with a shared purpose. We leave the day inspired, connected and motivated to continue improving outcomes for young parents and their children across Scotland.