Tackling the compensation culture myths

On page 10 of the June 2012 issue of RCN Bulletin there is a feature on how the so-called compensation culture is improving workplace practice.

Figures from the Department for Work and Pensions show that the number of employer cases, recoveries and settlements has been steadily declining in the last five years. The RCN legal department has noticed a dramatic fall in moving and lifting cases, in particular.

RCN Senior Employment Relations Officer Kim Sunley says if this downward trend represents a reduction in injuries, it is to be welcomed. But she cautions against complacency, particularly when considering the link between poor staffing levels and the increasing number of bariatric patients being nursed.

“Lifting and handling has long been an important issue for the RCN to tackle. The introduction of the manual handling regulations and increased use of hoists and other lifting equipment helped prevent injuries to nurses. But there are still challenges out there and the RCN is keen to encourage members to get in touch if they encounter any problems in their workplace,” she says.

Getting help

The RCN’s legal department provides support for members who wish to make a claim but it is important to get support for making emotionally difficult and sometimes life-changing decisions.
RCN members are encouraged to keep in touch with their local office and to use the RCN’s free careers and counselling services.