Activist training

Activist conference 2011 - Glasgow 29 to 30 November

Applications for the 2011 activist conference in Glasgow on 29 to 30 November are now being accepted. If you are an activist in Scotland and would like to attend, please fill in and return the registration form (Word 114KB).

Learning and development for RCN representatives in Scotland

Becoming an RCN representative is an exciting and challenging opportunity to 'make a difference' in the workplace. Whether in the role of steward, safety representative or learning representative, it can be a rewarding learning experience enhancing your own role, the role of colleagues, as well as the wider profile of nursing.

Not only will you be introduced to a wide network of RCN nursing colleagues but, as part of this role, you will undertake a comprehensive training programme equipping you with a tool box of knowledge and skills which you will invariably use on a daily basis.

The new learning and development pathway for activsts consists of:

  • Module one (Foundation)
  • Module two  (Development - steward, safety representative or learning representative - dependent on chosen role) 
  • Module three (Ongoing continuing professional development  or CPD). 

Throughout the pathway you will be provided with individualised support from your mentor (RCN officer or assistant officer),  the learning and development facilitator, wider RCN staff and programme colleagues.  This support network will help you to become effective, competent and confident in your RCN role.

Module one - foundation programme

If you are a new representative, shortly after you are accredited you will receive

Module one (Foundation) is a five day programme which is split into a block of four facilitated workshop days followed by day five where representatives return to share experiences, learning and review their individual portfolios.  Module one is designed as a general introduction to the RCN and is based on the RCN generic role descriptors.

Representatives are introduced to the foundation knowledge and skills that they need to meet the requirements of the RCN representative generic role descriptors.  Knowledge and skills in this programme are described through the six key themes of:

  • representing
  • negotiating
  • communicating
  • organising
  • campaigning
  • influencing.

Module 2 - Development programme

Once you have successfully completed module one - foundation you will be able to progress to module two - development.  Module two courses are specific to your role as an RCN steward, learning representative or safety representative. Building on the learning outcomes achieved in module one this module prepares participants to meet the requirements of the role specific descriptors.

Find out more about the specific RCN representative roles below:

Within both module one and module two representatives will undertake self assessment against the role descriptor and personal development which will form part of their representative's portfolio.  The portfolio represents an ongoing record of learning and development.

Module three - Continuing professional development (CPD)

Experienced representatives can undertake further learning and development through Module three workshops.

Time off for union duties

Accredited representatives are entitled to paid time away from work to undergo training to support them in carrying out the functions of their role.

Interested?

Please contact your local RCN office to find out more about being active within the RCN.  Once you have been accredited as an RCN representative your local RCN branch will arrange for you to attend the appropriate courses.

Additional information for representatives

Reasonable expenses will be reimbursed in line with the RCN expenses policy.