RCN comment on Conservative Reform Plan for the NHS

Published: 04 January 2010

Responding to Chapter One of the Conservative Party’s draft manifesto ‘Our reform plan for the NHS’, launched today (4 January), Dr Peter Carter, RCN Chief Executive & General Secretary, said:

“The most important thing for any incoming government is to maintain investment in clinical staff and their training. Having the right number and balance of skilled staff is the key to delivering quality care and in improving people’s health. Specialist nurses also play a vital role in improving care for people with long-term conditions and we are calling on all parties to support patients having guaranteed access to these specialists.

“We are encouraged to see signs that show the Conservatives intend to take a firm stance on public health and health inequalities but we are disappointed to have not heard more about issues such as tackling alcohol abuse. Specifically, we would have liked to have heard a firm commitment for a single mandatory code to better regulate the drinks industry.

“Ultimately what matters most is improving the health of the nation and we would welcome a pledge from all parties on how we can work together to get the maximum public benefit for our health pounds.”

Ends

Notes to editors

1. 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

2. The RCN’s General Election Priorities can be found here: http://www.rcn.org.uk/newsevents/government/general_election

3. 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.