An amazing experience

Published: 01 May 2013

Student Information Officer (SIO) Saffy Sparkles shares her experience of Congress and encourages you to consider becoming an SIO

A wonderful Congress

I had been told what a great experience Congress would be to be part of. The recommendations were not misleading – it was amazing. When I arrived I met other RCN student information officers and the RCN Student Adviser Gill Robertson (now in the role of an Assistant RCN Officer) who was so welcoming.

One Congress highlight that resonated in all of our hearts and minds was the poem Nursing the Nation by Molly Case. We discussed how it made us all feel empowered and that we will do more for our patients to ensure they feel that they are receiving the 6 C's of nursing (care, compassion, courage, communication, competence and commitment) from all of us whether in England, Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland.

Just before our lunch session on the Monday we had the honour of listening to RCN Chief Executive & General Secretary Dr Peter Carter’s keynote speech. So many of us were moved to hear how he felt about the Francis report and Willis commission on nursing education, as well as the image of nursing – hearing others’ opinions was invigorating. We all want to be the best nurses we can be, provide the best care we can, and we will strive to restore the faith of our patients, their carers and their families.

Getting involved

If Congress has inspired you too, why not consider becoming an SIO?

When RCN Wales came to talk to our cohort about joining the RCN they mentioned becoming an SIO. At that time there was not one in place at our university and I saw it as a good way to support my fellow students professionally and personally. I was very proud to receive my SIO pack and pin, and wear it with pride on placement and when attending RCN events at university.

In my role I offer friendly, professional advice on the services the RCN can offer to support students both with their academic and placement aspects of their studies. When a new cohort starts I attend the RCN meeting and talk about the benefits I’ve found in joining.

I’ve since recruited two more SIOs for the university. We are all currently working together to arrange an afternoon tea party in honour of Nurses’ Day (12 May). We have ordered free packs of goodies from the RCN and we are looking forward to sharing, discussing and debating what being a nursing student means to us.

Find out more about becoming an SIO.