Nurse leaders and the RCN

Published: 05 January 2010

The RCN recently undertook a survey project to find out about the opinions, experiences and expectations of nurse leaders. The aim was to better understand your needs in order that we meet your expectations in the future.

Over 500 members responded to our survey. These nurses represented all 4 countries (plus one respondent from Saudi Arabia), and were at differing stages of their careers.

The RCN was seen positively by many of the respondents. Unfortunately many of you said you were not aware of what the RCN is doing specifically for you, but fortunately many of the things you asked for are currently available for members.

We know that we need to work harder at keeping you informed about what we can offer you and you will start to see the profile of the Inspire programme being raised in the future. Inspire is the programme developed to inform, support and inspire executive nurses and those aspiring to be executive nurses. Make sure you don’t miss out by making sure that your contact details, in particular your email address is up to date by visiting MyRCN.

In the recent survey you told us that the RCN champions nursing well, and see the organisation as representing the voice of nursing. A number of respondents highlighted the involvement that the RCN has in debating current issues, and encouraging members to get involved in those debates.

The RCN is seen as being good at developing policies, being involved in national initiatives and disseminating this type of information to the members and the wider health care community. Our website is a key resource for this information. The RCN website includes a wealth of information to support you in your role. We are continuing to develop information and resources relevant to you.

Many of you said that the forums were working well, although there was a lack of awareness of the forums and what they can offer members. The Nurses in Management and Leadership Forum is for you if you want to connect with peers with similar interests, and keep up to date with developments relevant to you and your organisation. This forum is free to join. You can find out more information, including how to join, here. Many of the survey respondents asked for an online community, and as a forum member you can access the Nurses in Management and Leadership online community where you can network with colleagues, pose questions, and discuss important issues.

You told us that the professional support, and support on employment issues was good. However, at the RCN, we recognise that the needs of nurse leaders are different to those at other levels of an organisation. As an executive nurse you can access brokerage from a senior member of RCN staff. Through the Consultancy Service you can also access coaching and mentoring services which can help you to be more effective in your role. Charges may apply to the Consultancy Service packages.

The survey demonstrated a need and desire for continued professional development for nurse leaders. The RCN leadership programmes are generally well received by members, as is the RCN’s general educational programme. However, the survey demonstrated the need to develop programmes of professional development designed specifically to meet the needs of nurse leaders. These needs include further programmes on management and leadership development, board development, financial issues, commissioning and strategic issues. We are developing programmes to address these needs, so keep an eye out for further information over the next few months.

Many thanks to everyone who responded to the survey. We hope that you will see that we are addressing your needs in the future. We are always keen to hear your comments. If you would like to get involved with Inspire, or would like further information, please contact The Nursing Adviser in Management and Leadership.