Conference report

After a welcome from the society’s chair, Claire Chatterton, the delegates heard  a variety of interesting speakers, had the chance to network and meet others interested in the history of nursing and enjoy the excellent conference facilities.

Professor Anne Marie Rafferty began with an engaging and entertaining presentation entitled, “A Passion for History”. Two winners of the Monica Baly Bursary Award presented some of their research that the award had helped support. Rosemary Cook (former CEO of the Queen’s Nursing Institute and now at the Institute of Physics and Engineering in Medicine) spoke on “Florence Nightingale Shore – researching a life”, a project which culminated in her publishing an interesting book and  Tommy Dickinson (University of Chester) gave a thought-provoking paper on “Queer” Treatments: giving a voice to former patients and nurses who received or administered treatments for “sexual deviations”.  Jonathan Evans, Trust Archivist for Barts Health NHS Trust, spoke about Edith Cavell and The London Hospital and illustrated his talk with examples of the rich archival material that relates to her life and work. One delegate summed up the day in their comment, “It was first class in terms of organisation, venue,  speakers, food and a wonderful friendly atmosphere throughout the whole day.” Another  delegate remarked in their evaluation, “very accomplished, engaging, dynamic, knowledgeable speakers”  and the audience were able to enjoy four speakers on some very different topics.

The History of Nursing Society is open to any RCN members who are interested in history. It is possible to be a member of the society in addition to the three forums allowed to members. Do come and join us – you will be very welcome. To join just call RCN Direct on 0345 772 6100 - option 1.

Look out for future events on our web pages

 http://www.rcn.org.uk/development/communities/specialisms/history_of_nursing

Claire Chatterton

Chair, RCN History of Nursing Society