Q & A with RCN President Andrea Spyropoulos, Deputy President Cecilia Anim and Council Member for RCN London Region Andy McGovern

This item supports ‘Pensions, cuts and reform raised during part conference season’ on page 2 of RCN Bulletin issue 284, published on 19 October 2011.

RCN President Andrea Spyropoulos attended the Conservative party conference

What was it like representing members at the conference?

Before I got there it was a little scary – I didn’t want to miss any opportunity to advance the cause of nursing and nurses. In reality, it was a great opportunity to attend fringes and to be vocal about issues that are really important to us.

How valuable did you feel your perspective was as a frontline nurse?

Absolutely invaluable. Politicians have an agreed script, a set of stats and a will to convey the agreed strategy – it was wonderful to have the opportunity to paint a realistic picture of our world. 

What was the best thing about the conference?

The opportunity to meet with other organisations and leads on major policies. The meeting with the doctors and the Chair of the NHS Confederation was particularly useful for sharing information. It was also fantastic to hear Dr Kieran Moriarty, who is Professor of Gastroenterology at Royal Bolton Hospital, support the use of specialist nurses and to hear him demonstrate the valuable and extremely cost effect service they provide.

Cecilia Anim attended the Liberal Democrats party conference

What did you feel was your biggest achievement at the conference?

I was able to have face-to-face discussions with politicians who are currently engaged in shaping the health agenda and therefore I had the opportunity to put across members’ concerns.

How did you influence politicians?

During discussion with specific delegates I was able to outline the picture of the current working environment and feelings of members. I got the impression politicians were really listening.

What will you remember most?

The RCN, Nuffield Trust and British Medical Association joint fringe meeting was a highlight – I had the opportunity to play the role of a politician which gave me insight into the mind of a politician! I also really enjoyed the panel discussion on the health agenda.

Andy McGovern attended the Labour party conference

What was the atmosphere like?

It’s fair to say that the Labour party are in a reflective mood at the moment – rebuilding and reinventing themselves. The atmosphere reflected this. 

What was your perspective on how important health is in politics at present?

Health was a key talking point, particularly given that the Lords were due to debate the Health and Social Care Bill soon after the conference season.

What was your conference highlight?

Meeting MPs and Lords and briefing on the RCN’s position in relation to the bill.
I also enjoyed being in the hall for the health and education debates – but we do it better at Congress!

Any other observations?

It was great to see what a fantastic job Peter Carter does on behalf of members. Sometimes we forget just how much respect policy makers and politicians give to the RCN’s opinions and advice.