Becoming an RCN representative
In support of the article Nurses’ ‘absolute dedication’ praised, on page four of the 13 July 2011 issue of RCN Bulletin.
Representatives Zeba Arif and Liz Rees tell RCN Bulletin Extra why she they became active in the RCN
Why did you decide to become an RCN activist?
Zeba Arif: I was 'talked' into becoming an RCN steward, to raise the profile of the RCN in mental health. There were scores of COHSE stewards where I trained but no RCN steward.
Liz Rees: I decided to become a rep to keep myself more up to date on emerging professional and political issues and I knew I would just love the camaraderie and stimulation that it would provide. I have not been left disappointed!
How much time does it take up?
ZA: Since I was the lead steward, my RCN work gradually far exceeded the stipulated two days agreed by HR. Eventually RCN negotiated for me to become a full time On-Site professional officer. Nowadays, as the Deputy Chair of the RCN Forensic Nursing Forum, I also edit the Forensic Newsletter.
LR: The time factor thing is difficult to answer. I see being on the UK Learning Representatives Committee as a brilliant consuming hobby, I enjoy it very much! In terms of work however it varies from month to month. Anything from three days a month to seven days or more spread out as required. That does not include ’thinking time’ or administration. In my opinion being a board member for a devolved country involves more work than a region. Where you live in relation to London, and your local regional headquarters also have an impact on traveling time involved in the role. It is, however, well worth the effort involved.
How has your work benefitted other RCN members?
ZA: Members have benefitted by becoming more aware of both employer and employee rights and responsibilities. I have assiduously distributed RCN literature to both managers and nurses and presented RCN membership as the best option for nursing with regard to knowledge, skills and expertise.
LR: I have seen first hand how RCN activities have developed confidence and ability in members. It has been a real privilege to help identify what members are requesting, and contribute in a small way to the development of tools, study sessions and other facilities which the RCN expert staff tailor make to serve our members very practically in their work life balance.
How has your career benefitted from being an active member of the RCN?
ZA: Being an RCN activist has undoubtedly been a blessing. However, along the way there were misguided managers who earnestly advised me to give up being an RCN representative because they argued that it would be detrimental to my nursing career. Thankfully I was able to prove to them that the reverse was true.
LR: Becoming a learning representative has been one of the most interesting things I have ever done. The interaction with so many knowledgeable and interesting people has helped me to keep up with lifelong learning and provided huge inspiration. Many of the committee and board skills I have acquired are transferable skills. Which should I ever wish to further my career in the future could be very useful. I just love my current job as a staff nurse and do not wish to change it, at the moment!
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