RCN welcomes Prime Minister’s pledge on modern matrons

Published: 24 September 2007

Responding to today’s speech by Prime Minister Gordon Brown, Royal College of Nursing General Secretary Dr Peter Carter said;

"The RCN has long called for more modern matrons with a central, supported role in the NHS that recognises their key contribution in tackling hospital acquired infections, driving up standards of patient care and providing leadership on the wards. This investment is badly needed and is a welcome signal that this government is making a genuine commitment to the future of the NHS and its workforce that will be of long term benefit to staff and their patients.

“This is a good news day for patients, nurses and healthcare. We look forward to working with government to make this announcement a reality so that there are more matrons walking the wards, leading the way and making a difference."

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Notes to Editors

For further information, interviews or illustrations please contact the RCN Media Office on 0207 647 3633, press.office@rcn.org.uk or visit http://www.rcn.org.uk/news/mediacentre.php

Royal College of Nursing (RCN) is the voice of nursing across the UK and is the largest professional union of nursing staff in the world. The RCN promotes the interest of nurses and patients on a wide range of issues and helps shape healthcare policy by working closely with the UK Government and other national and international institutions, trade unions, professional bodies and voluntary organisations.