STOKE PLACE hotel has launched a partnership with the country’s oldest nursing association.

The hotel has named the Queen’s Nursing Institute (QNI) as its charity of the year, and as part of its partnership will be raising money for the institute through an optional gratuity added to all restaurant bills.

In an exclusive interview with the Observer, Adam Salter, general manager for Stoke Place, said: “It is key for us that we are contributing to the local community. There are natural links between as and the QNI, due to our royal connections.”

The Queen’s Nurses set the gold standard for the nursing profession, with their lead organisation, the QNI, carefully selecting new Queen’s Nurses and providing support for them. The Queen’s Nurses typically work in community NHS services and clinics, providing support to vulnerable people who need it most. The organisation is patronised by the Queen, who opens her private gardens at Windsor to specially invited Queen’s Nurses every year.

Chief executive of the QNI, Dr Crystal Oldman, said: “This charity is all about nurses who work in the community, delivering care to some of the most vulnerable members of society in their own homes. We’re absolutely delighted that Stoke Place has chosen to support the QNI.

“During my investiture in Buckingham Palace last week, the Queen told me the QNI was doing some really impressive work. I have concerns about the future of nursing, but the QNI and its nurses are wonderfully positioned to demonstrate the value of nursing, and will help to influence government policies.”

One Queen’s Nurse, Claire Green, of Marlow, who works in Maidenhead, said: “Being a Queen’s Nurse is something you have to apply for. The requirements are very strict. I work as a district nurse in Maidenhead, training nurses on placements.

“We have to prepare the workforce for the future – by making them more politically aware, and giving them the confidence to stand up for themselves.”

Stoke Place is the first hotel to fundraise for the charity in the QNI’s 130-year history. As part of the partnership, Stoke Place will also be hosting a summer garden party in aid of the QNI next summer.