HCAs paint Congress red

The third ever HCAs’ Day at Congress attracted more than double the number of delegates than last year’s event in Bournemouth. On a day specially tailored to their needs, health care assistants (HCAs) and assistant practitioners (APs) proudly wore their trademark red T shirts, showing they now form a firm part of the RCN family.

President Andrea Spyropoulos opened the day by stressing how important team work is in the delivery of quality patient care. “I’m delighted to see so many of you here,” she said. “You are the backbone of nursing and I want you to have a huge presence at Congress. Spread the word, the RCN is for you.”

The day aimed to give delegates an opportunity to sample the full experience of Congress and HCAs and APs piled in to the main hall to hear Dr Peter Carter’s keynote speech. They also visited the exhibition and attended sessions on regulation, accountability, dementia and more.

Michelle Lancaster, an AP from Lancaster, said: “It’s been a fabulous day. I’ve learned so much and have got ideas to take back and implement on my ward. I don’t get many opportunities for training so this has been great. I’ve already got my sights set on attending Congress in Harrogate next year.”