UKCCNA position on RCN strike action and critical care nursing
This statement on critical care nurse staffing (including registered nurses, nursing associates and nursing support workers) and upcoming strike action has been prepared by the UKCCNA and includes expert advice from the RCN.
This is difficult time and one during which members of our nursing team may have to make difficult personal decisions. The UKCCNA supports that all staff should be able to thrive within a psychologically safe working environment and to have a fair income reflective of their essential position with the healthcare system and as patient advocates. The UKCCNA respects individual decisions and expects nursing staff to conduct themselves in a respectful and professional manner in line with RCN strike and local policies.
Critical care is a designated area of derogation under the RCN Life Preserving Model of strike action. Derogation is a method of maintaining patient safety and safe staffing levels. It is an exemption provided to a member or service from taking part in industrial action. Critical care nursing staff will therefore be exempt from taking part in strike action, even in hospitals that have voted to strike and even if an individual wishes to strike.
Critical care nursing staff who do not provide direct patient care such as practice development or clinical educator nurses will not be derogated.
