Open Public Services White Paper

This article is in support of Proposals to widen outsourcing, published on page two of the 10 August 2011 issue of RCN Bulletin.

The RCN believes government proposals to encourage multiple providers, in the Open Public Services White Paper, do not take into account current good work and the potential for disruption.

The College opposes competition among providers if it places patients at risk, and that high quality, patient-centred care must be the aim for every provider.

The paper does give an indication of opportunities which could become available to RCN members through any reforms – for example setting up a social enterprise – although certain barriers would need to be addressed first.

There are also concerns about pensions. The RCN wants all staff delivering NHS services having guaranteed access to the NHS pension scheme. This might not be the case for those already working for social enterprises, or for public health nursing staff who may be transferred to councils.

For more details, and to respond to the consultation, visit the Open Public Services White Paper page.