RCN rejects NMC fee hike

Published: 24 August 2012

The Royal College of Nursing has today submitted its response in opposition to the Nursing and Midwifery Council (NMC) proposal to increase fees by 58 per cent.

Over 99 per cent of the 85,000 members who responded to a recent RCN survey were opposed to the increase.

The RCN is also reiterating its call for the NMC to conduct a full independent financial audit – a suggestion backed by the Secretary of State for Health Andrew Lansley. The RCN believes it is now time for the NMC to fully investigate how it has lost control of its finances.

RCN Chief Executive & General Secretary Dr Peter Carter said that RCN members have clearly stated that they oppose moves by the NMC to pass on the costs of a financial crisis not of their making.

“Nurses are already in the midst of a two year pay freeze and face increased pension contributions and a rising cost of living. They shouldn’t have to pay almost 60 per cent more just to maintain their livelihood.

"Our members have also been clear in their concerns about the NMC’s position more generally, and will need some assurance that their registration fees are going into a well-run, robust regulator and not disappearing into an abyss.”

The RCN’s full response to the NMC’s consultation contains the views of members surveyed, including those expressing their own distress and horror at the proposals.

Read the RCN's response