Dr Carter's visit to Cambridgeshire
Published: 31 March 2009
The RCN Cambridgeshire Branch was delighted to welcome Dr Peter Carter on a recent visit to Peterborough. The day commenced with a meeting at HMP Peterborough where he met with the governor and nursing staff. All prisoners have a nurse led mental health assessment on arrival and the visit highlighted the good work of local staff.
Dr Carter visits the local hospitals
At Edith Cavell Hospital Dr Peter Carter met Chris Wilkinson, Director of Nursing and her team of matrons. This included a visit to a ward where he took the time to speak with patients, including one who was an ex nurse and RCN member.
Peterborough Foundation Hospital works with the MOD to provide clinical placements for nurses when they are not on active service. Part of the visit was for Dr Carter to hear at first hand the challenges facing MOD nurses and how they manage a dual role as nurses in the forces, as well as nursing in the NHS.
The last stage of the visit was a private meeting with local branch members.
During the day, Peter was interviewed by BBC Radio Cambridgeshire, one regional and one local newspaper, regional TV and hospital radio.
A high profile event
Tony Durcan RCN Officer for Cambs, who worked with the Branch to organise the visit said, "This was a high profile event, of which the branch and the RCN should be proud. It not only enabled Peter to see at first hand the real difference our members make in all aspects of nursing but reminded healthcare staff of the importance of belonging to an organisation that truly cares for its members."