Consultation on strengthening the NHS Constitution

The RCN has taken an active part in the work of the Future Forum, from which these proposals have been developed, and specifically in the wording for the amendment relating to staff rights, responsibilities, and commitments.

The RCN is broadly supportive of the NHS Constitution, and in general has welcomed the proposals to amend those aspects of it relating to improving patient involvement, valuing and supporting staff, and providing for more integration across health and social care provision.

However we do have concerns over some aspects, not least the proposals relating to patient data and the duty of candour, and we will be consulting with our membership over the next months in order to produce a full response in January 2013.

For further information, please email papa.ukintl.dept@rcn.org.uk