19 Better at home
Resolution submitted by the RCN Paediatric and Neonatal Intensive Care Nurses Forum
That this meeting of RCN Congress urges government to expand and develop resources within the community setting for technologically-dependent neonates and children
- Work led by the Nursing Development Committee
- Lead RCN Council member: Jenny Booth
Congress 2007 supported the resolution, recognising that there were an increasing number of children and young people with complex health care needs who are technologically dependent and many of whom experienced delays in being discharged from hospital. The lack of community children's nursing and other resources, including equipment to support children at home, was highlighted as a particular problem, as well as the protracted means of agreeing and financing appropriate home care packages to meet individual child and family needs.
The RCN has lobbied and written letters outlining discussion points to government ministers, including Under Secretary of State for Health Ivan Lewis, and held discussions with chief nursing officers. Members have also participated in work around the development of a child-specific continuing care framework in England, as well as contributing to a review of services for children with complex health care needs in Northern Ireland. The latter includes the development of an integrated care pathway. Articles and news reports have featured in Nursing Standard, Paediatric Nursing and the Paediatric NewsLink. The RCN is also looking to undertake an awareness-raising campaign with WellChild.