POLICY: Proposed Abortion Services (Safe Access Zones) (Scotland) Bill

RCN Scotland supports the intention behind the proposed Abortion Services (Safe Access Zones) (Scotland) Bill. While we have not received a significant number of representations from members who feel threatened by protests at sites, we strongly support the principle that staff and services users should be able to access sites without any impediment or fear.

Our submission is based on the RCN’s position statement1 published in 2013 and updated in 2020 that supports RCN members ‘in providing the highest standards of compassionate care possible for women who choose to have a termination of pregnancy and […] providing support to those nursing [professionals] who work to provide safe and quality care. […] We equally acknowledge and respect those nurses, midwives and health care assistants who have a conscientious objection within current legislation.’ Our support for the proposed Bill does not in anyway detract from this position of respect for members who have a legitimate and conscientious objection within current legislation.