RCN: Understanding the Royal College of Nursing and Its Current Initiatives

The Royal College of Nursing (RCN) is the world’s largest nursing union and professional body, representing over half a million nurses, midwives, nursing support workers, and students. The RCN is actively involved in various initiatives to advance the nursing profession and address critical issues within the healthcare sector.

Recently, the RCN has been at the forefront of advocating for fair pay and safe staffing levels. The organization responded to the health secretary’s letter of instruction to the NHS Pay Review Body for the 2025-26 pay round, emphasizing the need for a significant reset in pay for nursing staff. In England, RCN members voted to reject the 5.5% NHS pay award, citing it as insufficient.

The RCN is also focused on improving working conditions and mental health support for nursing staff. A new report highlighted the rising number of nursing staff experiencing suicidal thoughts due to workplace pressures, prompting the RCN to launch a pilot scheme aimed at improving working conditions through culture change.

In addition to these efforts, the RCN has developed e-learning modules to inspire and support nursing staff in engaging in clinical research. These resources are part of the RCN’s broader strategy to enhance clinical skills and public health policy.

The organization continues to be a strong voice in nursing issues, including health and safety in the workplace and public health policy. The RCN’s annual nursing event, overseen by the newly announced Chair and Vice Chair of RCN Congress, will address these and other critical topics).