South West RCN member Charles Conibear named RCN Steward of the Year

Published: 22 April 2013

Congratulations to Royal College of Nursing (RCN) South West region member, Charles Conibear, who received the prestigious award of RCN Steward of the Year at RCN Congress 2013. The RCN Award ceremony was held following the official opening of Congress by RCN President Andrea Spyropoulos, on Sunday 21 April 2013 at the Arena and Convention Centre in Liverpool.

Charles, who is employed by the Royal Devon and Exeter NHS Foundation Trust, received the RCN Steward of the Year award against strong competition, in recognition of his exceptional work against the South West terms and conditions consortium (pay cartel).

RCN Chief Executive and General Secretary, Dr Peter Carter, praised Charles’ outstanding commitment to RCN members’ rights, in the face of the pay cartel’s drive to undermine the pay and terms and conditions of NHS workers across the region.

Dr Peter Carter said: “As a steward Charles has been dealing with one of the most high profile pay disputes in the UK – the South West pay cartel. He’s been at the heart of the action, fighting for his members at every turn. He’s organised a number of joint union protests, and has regularly been seen, standing in the rain, holding placards.

“He’s spoken out to local media, organised meetings for hundreds of members, and ensured that the regional MP was fully involved. The staff in the region always enjoy working with Charles, and he has played a key role in the eventual demise of the pay cartel.”

RCN South West Regional Director, Jeannett Martin said:  “On behalf of everyone at the RCN South West regional office we would like to congratulate Charles on this fantastic achievement. We are delighted that his tireless attitude and dedication to members have been recognised, during what has been a particularly difficult time for NHS staff in the region. This award is thoroughly well deserved.”