Professor Owen Barr has been awarded an RCN Fellowship at the RCN Awards, which recognises innovative individuals who have made an exceptional commitment to advancing the science and practice of nursing and the improvement of health and patient care. He was one of five from Northern Ireland recognised in a ceremony in London.
Speaking at the ceremony, Owen said:
“I am deeply honoured to receive an RCN Fellowship. Throughout my career, I have had the privilege of working alongside and learning from people with learning disabilities, families, students and colleagues who are dedicated to improving the lives of these individuals and strengthening the nursing profession.
"This recognition reflects the collective effort of so many people who have contributed to advancing education, practice, policy and research in this important area. I am grateful to Ulster University and to the wider nursing and interdisciplinary community for their ongoing support, and I look forward to continuing this work in the years ahead.”
As Professor of Nursing and Intellectual Disabilities at Ulster University, Owen is an internationally respected nurse academic whose leadership in nursing education has made a significant impact nationally and globally. During his tenure as Head of School, he expanded innovative learning across nursing and paramedic education, leading the transition of paramedic training into higher education and supporting the graduation of Northern Ireland’s first degree level paramedics in 2024.
For over three decades, Owen has co-produced educational resources with people with learning disabilities and their families, influencing UK practice through guidelines and accessible learning tools. He has also shaped national nursing education standards, including chairing the Standards Delivery Group for community nursing. Owen has been commended for his sustained commitment to enhancing care for people with learning disabilities and exceptional research and teaching record.
More on the RCN Awards
The RCN Awards celebrate the hard work and dedication of outstanding members, and those individuals who have made a significant contribution to the nursing profession.
Members were welcomed to RCN headquarters in London to celebrate the outstanding contributions they’ve made to the RCN, from going above and beyond to support colleagues to influencing positive change and strengthening the nursing profession.
Nominations are made by RCN members and reviewed by an awards committee, made up of members elected to senior RCN roles.
