Resolution: one Royal College, two critical functions

This resolution passed.

In his independent report into the culture of the RCN, Bruce Carr KC noted that the dual function of our College is both a strength and a weakness. In his report, as well as in member narrative, there is reference to a professional ‘side’ and a trade union ‘side’. He noted that ‘there is also a wish from some within both sides of the organisation for a split to take place’ (Royal College of Nursing, 2022).

As RCN members, we all engage in professional work, and need the employment protection that comes with membership of a trade union. Education and training are central to professional development of all members; and RCNLearn supports both arms of the College. Our strength is in working together; the weaknesses appear when we allow division and competition to get in the way.

The College’s dual function was questioned in Sir Robert Francis’ report of the Mid Staffordshire NHS Foundation Trust Public Enquiry, 10 years ago. He said, ‘the inherent conflict between the representation of the interests of nurses as employees and the representation of their interests as a profession is capable of diminishing the authority with which the RCN’s views are received’ (Francis, 2013). Yet the crisis in health and care services today show the vital importance of that dual function to safeguard professional standards in the provision of safe, effective care for nursing and for patients.

Throughout our industrial action, professional and trade union issues have sat side-by-side. Our campaigns on Safe Staffing and Fair Pay have shown how the professional context and evidence can strengthen the call for good employment practice, with a salary that recognises and rewards modern nursing, and the terms and conditions under which we work.

Our Nursing Workforce Standards demonstrate the importance of our voice as a professional body and Royal College in setting the standards we expect of the nursing workforce and the provision of safe and effective nursing services. They support members in demonstrating the impact of nurse staffing levels on the safety and quality of care.

As we begin our new five-year strategy, should the work of our Royal College continue to be informed by and encompass both professional body and trade union functions, as set out in our Royal Charter? Bruce Carr KC recommended that, through ‘the widest possible consultation’, a definitive member-led position on this issue is agreed. What better place than Congress – where every single one of our 500,000+ members are represented – to send a clear message to Council on this issue.

Reading list for this debate available at rcn.libguides.com/congress2023.

References

Francis R (2013) (HC 898-III) Report of the Mid Staffordshire NHS Foundation Trust public inquiry : Volume 3: Present and future Annexes. London: Stationery Office.

The Royal College of Nursing (2022) Independent review into the culture of the RCN - The Carr Review. Available at: https://www.rcn.org.uk/About-us/How-the-RCN-is-governed/Independent-review-into-the-culture-of-the-RCN (Accessed 13 March 2023)

Further reading 

Resolution reading list